British & Irish Lion Rory Best believes departing Ulster director of Rugby David Humphreys defined the club over the course of his time there.
Humphreys left the province on Saturday after agreeing to take up a similar role with Gloucester.
And Best, who played four times for the Lions during their 2013 tour to Australia, has been quick to praise Humphreys.
And while the Ulster hooker knows things won’t be the same without Humphreys, he believes the opportunity is something his former boss couldn’t turn down.
"He's not just been a part of Ulster rugby, he has been Ulster rugby," Best told the Irish Times.
"I was very surprised. Obviously he's had a big association with Ulster rugby, not just for the last few years as director of rugby but since the late 1990s.
"So, obviously it is a big shock but I suppose he has to do what's right for him and his family, to experience something new.
"It's no different from us as players, when opportunities like this come along. You want to finish with no regrets, it's just something he had to do.
"Obviously, it's bitterly disappointing but you have got to wish him all the best like you do with every player that leaves."
