The 30-year-old came on as a second-half replacement during Ulster’s 16-13 Magners League defeat to Edinburgh at Ravenhill and is hoping to nail down a place in the starting line-up - no matter where that might be.

"I had a good pre-season and I'm itching to get back and play some matches," Wallace told the BBC.

"I have enjoyed playing at centre for the last number of years and I've enjoyed my rugby most in that position. If I had a preference I would play at 12 but I'll play wherever I'm chosen."

"Ulster have played three competitive matches so far and I've only come off the bench so it would be nice to get into the starting XV, get some game time under my belt and really push for a place in Ireland's autumn international series."

Wallace took part in Ireland’s training camp in Dublin last week but revealed he is happier in the surroundings of his club in Belfast.

"It's great to be involved with the Irish set-up but it's also nice to get some consistency and be back with Ulster on a weekly basis, training day in, day out and playing some matches,” he added.

"It's an indication of the strength of the squad that players involved with Ireland cannot come back and automatically expect a place in the team."