Tom Smith joins London Irish

London Irish have announced the signing of Tom Smith from Welsh club Ospreys.

Irish coach Toby Booth has admitted that he signed the 26-year-old because of the versatility that he possesses.

"Tom's ability to play at both blindside flanker and number eight means he will add further to our back row options. He is a top class defender that possesses very good set piece attributes," Booth told the club's official website.

Speaking about his decision to join Irish, Smith revealed that the presence of fellow Welsh players persuaded him to leave Ospreys.

"I have thoroughly enjoyed my time at Ospreys but feel it is time to move on and I am keen to do this at London Irish," said Smith.

"There are a few Welsh lads in the current London Irish squad who have gone on to be extremely successful in recent seasons and I hope to follow suit when I join this summer."

Smith will join Irish for pre-season training in June.