Rugby: Edinburgh sign Steve Jones

Published on Tuesday 26 May 2009 10:21

EDINBURGH Rugby today moved to fill the vacancy created by Hugo Southwell's switch to Stade Francais by signing Scotland A international full back Steve Jones from Newcastle Falcons.

The 26-year-old caught the eye of Edinburgh coach Andy Robinson at last year's Churchill Cup in North America and is keen to return north of the border having previously represented the now defunct Border Reivers whom he joined from Huddersfield Giants rugby league club.

Jones said: "I wanted to move back because I've got aspirations to get into the national squad; I knew from January onwards that I wanted to move to Edinburgh."

Referring to competition for the No.15 jersey Jones said: "I know that both Chris (Paterson) and Jim (Thompson) are good players and I'm looking forward to the challenge. Chris is a world class kicker, so I fully understand it will be a difficult task to become first choice.

"But I've not just signed to play for Edinburgh; I also want to become Scotland's first choice full-back, so I'm going to give it everything."

Coach Robinson said of a player who made 40 appearances for Newcastle: "I enjoyed working with Steve for Scotland 'A' and I was impressed with his ability and level of physicality.

"He has a willingness to learn and I'm sure he will develop into a valued member of the Edinburgh squad over the next couple of seasons.

Jones' is Edinburgh's fourth signing for next season following Ross Samson, David Young and Roddy Grant.