There's a Flood at Leicester
Wed, 11 Jun 2008 10:12
One of the worst-kept secrets in Guinness Premiership circles have been confirmed - Leicester Tigers have signed World Cup finalist Toby Flood from Newcastle Falcons.
The 22-year-old is currently in New Zealand with the England squad, hoping to add to his 17 senior caps, and will join Tigers for pre-season training after a mid-year break.
"Leicester is a world-class club and the ambition of the club is very exciting for me," said Flood, who made his Premiership debut for Newcastle Falcons as a 19-year-old.
"I am sad to leave home and to leave Newcastle where I have very fond memories, but at this stage of my rugby career a new challenge is very important.
"This is an exciting challenge and it is one that I could not turn down. I am looking forward to getting stuck in at Leicester in pre-season training."
Surrey-born Flood made his senior international debut in November 2006 and joined England's World Cup squad after injury to his Newcastle colleague Jamie Noon. He played in the knockout-stage victories over Australia and hosts France, and also in the Final against South Africa.
Flood, who can play at centre or flyhalf, also scored England's opening try of the 2008 Six Nations against Wales and added another in the following game against Italy.
Tigers chairman Peter Tom said: "Toby Flood is an ambitious and talented young player with good experience at Premiership and international level.
"We are sure he will be a valuable addition to an already competitive squad and we are looking forward to his arrival in preparation for the new season."
Flood will join openside flank Ben Woods, another signing from Newcastle Falcons, in the Tigers squad.
