Lamont thrilled to be back with Warriors after Toulon sojourn

Scotland international Rory Lamont has re-signed for Glasgow Warriors after leaving Toulon, as the Scottish Rugby Union pursues its pledge to keep the top players in Scotland and strengthen the pro game with the return of others.

Lamont has signed a contract until the end of May 2014 after last week negotiating his release from French Top 14 side Toulon, citing a lack of playing time.

The 29-year-old back, who has 26 Scotland caps, said: “I’m absolutely delighted to have rejoined Glasgow Warriors and I can’t wait to get back to work with the squad and build on the fantastic results they’ve achieved in the first part of the campaign.

“I enjoyed my seasons with Toulon, but the time was right for a change, and I’m delighted this opportunity came up.

“Having now experienced rugby in both England and France, I feel I’m returning as a better, more-rounded player, and it’s a hugely exciting time to be coming back into the mix.

“Sean [Lineen] and Graham Lowe have told me all about the move to Scotstoun and the opportunities it will bring the club, while the calibre of players we’ve been resigning and bringing in makes it clear that the Warriors and Scottish Rugby are committed to taking the club forward. I can’t wait to play my part in that process, and I’m really thrilled to be back. I’ve got some fantastic memories of my first spell here, and I’m looking forward to making some new ones. I want to help the Warriors achieve success, and make the strongest possible case for Scotland selection.”

Educated at King Edward VII School in Melton Mowbray, Lamont first came north in 2004. His potential was quickly recognised by the Warriors coaches, and an initial short-term contract allowed him to join brother Sean in the Glasgow squad.

He scored 19 tries in 54 games during his first spell with the Warriors between 2004 and 2007 before moving to Sale Sharks, where he scored eight tries in 15 appearances.

He moved to France in 2009 and helped Toulon reach the Top 14 semi-finals and the final of the Amlin Challenge Cup.

Lamont can be registered for the Heineken Cup as an additional player and is the latest recruit for Glasgow, following Samoa World Cup wing David Lemi to Firhill.

Glasgow head coach Sean Lineen said of his new addition: “I’m chuffed to bits to have got Rory signed up, and I’m really excited about the contribution he’ll make over the next few years.

“I’ve always been a massive fan of Rory as a player and a person, and he’s a real quality addition to the squad at a busy stage in the season when the big games are coming thick and fast.

“He’s an ambitious player, and it speaks volumes for how we’re beginning to be perceived that he feels he can achieve those ambitions here.”

Graham Lowe, Scottish Rugby’s director of performance rugby, said: “Signing Rory is another indication that we’re serious about giving the professional clubs the tools to grow on and off the pitch.

“He’s a very talented international player who brings plenty to the table, and I’ve every confidence he’ll be a real asset for both Glasgow Warriors and Scotland in the months and years ahead.”