Exiles sign Blaney

London Irish have announced the signing of hooker Brian Blaney from last season’s Heineken Cup winners Leinster.

Blaney, 28, has spent seven seasons with the Dublin side and played for Ireland A.

Blaney said: “I am delighted to be joining such an exciting team as London Irish next season. The club has a great reputation in Ireland and I look forward to following in the footsteps of some of the great Irishmen who have played for the club.”

London Irish head coach Toby Booth said: “We are very pleased that Brian will soon be a London Irish player.

“He is a very experienced and tenacious hooker who will complement our current squad perfectly.

“Competition for places is paramount in our squad to sustain levels of performance, and Brian will continue our strength and competitiveness in the hooker position.”