Edinburgh sign former trialist Tait from Newcastle

Michael Tait: One-year deal. Picture: Getty

The 23-year-old was at Edinburgh for a trial in September but, despite him not featuring in their plans Newcastle demanded payment or a swift return to Kingston Park and Tait left. But Edinburgh head coach Alan Solomons kept tabs on him and, when the opportunity came to bring him north permanently Solomons moved in with the offer of a year’s deal.

“Michael [Tait] is a young player who we saw briefly and who probably didn’t have enough time,” said Solomons. “What we did realise straight away is that he’s a really good team man that fits into the Edinburgh Rugby environment very well. He’s a bright young talent and this year-long contract will give him an opportunity to show what he can bring.”

The former Scotland Under-20 centre is the son of Scotland and British and Irish Lions cap Alan, and hails from Kelso.

Having come through Scotland’s age-grade system with Edinburgh regulars Grant Gilchrist and Matt Scott, Tait is delighted to get the opportunity now.

“I’m really chuffed to get signed up,” he said. “I loved my time at the club in September.”

Meanwhile, London Scottish have re-signed Scottish-qualified backs Oli Grove – the younger brother of Scotland cap Alex – and Mike Doneghan, Grove signing a new two-year contract and former Scotland Under-20 winger Doneghan putting pen to paper on a one-year deal.

Head coach James Buckland said: “Mike has been one of the finds of the season.”