Symons kills Irish move, joins Gloucester

Editor

Gloucester have added to their back line resources for next season with the signing of former Worcester Warriors centre, Andy Symons.

The 24-year-old joined the Warriors in November 2013 and counts Leicester Tigers, Doncaster Knights and Tasman Makos amongst his former clubs. During his time with Worcester, he made more than 50 senior appearances for the Sixways based outfit, including 19 last season.

Symons, who hails from Hertfordshire, first started playing for Saracens Amateurs and Old Albanians before training with the Saracens Academy. He then moved to New Zealand where he was coached by current Leicester Tigers' Head Coach, Aaron Mauger, at Christchurch club High School Old Boys.

Having decided to leave Worcester at the end of the season, Symons had signed a two year contract with London Irish but, with their relegation from the Premiership, he will now link up with his new Gloucester team-mates when they report back for pre-season training next week.

Symons is also an accomplished goalkicker and Director of Rugby David Humphreys admitted that the opportunity to sign him was too good to turn down.

"As a result of Henry Trinder's injury at the end of last season, we wanted to add to our midfield options for 2016/17," he said.

"At this late stage, it can be difficult to find the quality of player needed to add value to the playing squad but I'm delighted that Andy has chosen to play his rugby at Gloucester.

"He caused us problems when he played against us last season and will bring a real physical presence in the midfield. He is young with his best rugby years ahead of him, and I look forward to seeing him realise his potential in a Gloucester shirt.”