Carter has French in a frenzy
Mon, 22 Sep 2008 11:22
Fleeting visit: Dan Carter lands at Perpignan
All Black flyhalf Dan Carter caused a big stir when he arrived in Europe at the weekend to get acquainted with his new club Perpignan.
The club said on its website that the 26-year-old Carter, who has a six-month contract with French Top 14 club Perpignan from December 1, landed at Spain's Barcelona airport smiling and looking in good shape, despite his 26-hour trip from Wellington via Hong Kong and London.
Carter, visibly surprised by the welcoming committee of about 20 journalists, said: "I'm a little surprised but it's nice."
Carter, who said he was looking forward to getting to know Perpignan, will be available for his new club following New Zealand's tour of Scotland, Ireland, Wales and England in November.
He was welcomed at the airport by Perpignan club president Paul Goze and coach Jacques Brunel, the report said.
Carter's first match for Perpignan will probably be in a Heineken Cup clash against Leicester at Perpignan on December 6.
Perpignan are currently lying second in the French Top 14 championship.
Goze said Carter's stay was "important" so that he can familiarize himself with what awaits when he arrives in December.
AFP
