Bath sign two international locks

Bath have confirmed the signatures of American John van der Giessen and Argentine Ignacio Fernandez-Lobbe as cover at lock.

Bath have confirmed the signatures of Argentine Ignacio Fernandez-Lobbe and American John van der Giessen as injury cover in the second row.

Lobbe will be with the Club for the rest of the season, whilst van der Giessen joins the West Country side for 3 months.

Both players bring with them a wealth of experience. 6'5″ Lobbe has represented Argentina over 60 times, playing in three World Cups. He spent four years at Sale Sharks, before making the move to Northampton Saints in 2008, where he made 37 appearances.

Van der Giessen is the current USA Eagles captain, has earned 13 caps for his country, and spent last season playing with Top 14 side Albi. He has also represented Hawkes Bay in New Zealand.

“Both players will be a valuable addition to the squad at this time when we have injuries in the second row,” said Head Coach Steve Meehan.

“They are both experienced players, who have played in a variety of leagues, and have really good attitudes. I'm sure they will fit right in with the squad we have here. Ignacio has played at the highest level for his country, and is a proven leader, so will be bringing some great experience with him, and John is a strong player, who has some very good lineout skills and is also athletic around the field.”

Bath are short on locks after Scott Hobson picked up a long-term arm injury during pre-season while England Saxon Peter Short is still recovering from knee surgery.

“Dan heard through the grapevine that we were short at second row and pinged us an email and it all went from there,” Bath chief executive Nick Blofeld told the Chronicle.

“It's a classic case of tapping into your network of contacts and past players.

“The coaches analysed John's play and thought he was worth it. He is athletic and good at the line-out.

“He'll be here any day now. We want to get him registered with (Heineken Cup organisers) ERC.

“It's a three-month deal initially but we would love to keep him if we can.”

Blofeld also confirmed that Hobson will be on the sidelines for a lengthy period.

“We have issues with Scott Hobson – it's going to be months rather than weeks,” he added.

“It was one of those freak accidents where he must have been hit at just the wrong angle and it damaged his nerves. He can't lift his arm. It's a long-term thing. It's a worry.”