The 22-year-old has had a watching brief so far this year as Ulster have picked up four wins and four defeats from their first eight Magners League games.

However O’Connor has been rewarded for his patience by coach Brian McLaughlin and given his first start but he admitted he won’t be getting too carried away in Dublin.

“I try not to get too excited too early and build the game up too much,” said O’Connor, who will be aiming to make an impact in a bid to force his way in to Ireland's RBS 6 Nations squad.

“For me it is basically just another game of rugby, my approach will be no different to any other game.

“I will go in, do my basics well, kick my kicks and make my tackles, and hopefully we will come away with a good win.”