Published: Monday, 29th June, 2009 4:29pm

Irish add to front row options

Comments (0) | Print | Email

PROP James Tideswell has predicted that another great season lies ahead for London Irish after signing for the Exiles today.

The 25-year-old has arrived from Plymouth Albion on a one-year deal after impressing in National One last season. And he met up with his new team for the first time this morning when preseason training for the 2009/10 campaign got underway.

The former Gloucester youngster said: 'When I met with Toby Booth I was impressed with what he told me about the club and the set-up.

'London Irish has had a great season and I"m sure another lies ahead. I"m looking forward to getting started and to playing especially in the Guinness Premiership.'

Before starring for Albion last season, Tideswell played in National Two for Stourbridge. He has also represented the England Counties side.

Irish head coach Toby Booth has now doubt he has the ability to cope with life in the Premiership.

He said: 'James is highly regarded by Graham Dawe, the Plymouth coach, and that"s as credible an endorsement as you can get as a forward in this country.

'He is a good athlete who shows a real desire to make it to the top level of the game and that"s very encouraging.'