Monday 14 November 2016 15:06, UK
Gloucester have signed back-row forward Carl Fearns from French Top 14 side Lyon ahead of the 2017/18 season.
The 27-year-old, who can play at No 8 or flanker, will bring plenty of Premiership experience to Kingsholm after making 93 appearances during his spells with Bath and Sale.
Merseyside-born Fearns has also been capped at England Saxons and U20s level and was shortlisted as IRB junior player of the year when playing for the latter.
He has spent the past two seasons with Lyon, helping them secure an immediate return from Pro D2 to the top flight and was voted the supporters' player of the season as they won promotion.
Cherry and Whites director of rugby David Humphreys said: "We're very happy that Carl has opted to join Gloucester Rugby.
"He's a quality performer who has made it clear that he wants to be playing in the Premiership to give himself the best possible chance of playing for England, and he sees Gloucester as the best place for him to achieve that goal.
"Carl is exactly the sort of individual that we were looking for to supplement what we already have in the back row. Skilful, tough, uncompromising and possessing a win at all costs attitude.
"He's the kind of person you want alongside you when you're up against it and we're very happy that he'll be joining us for next season. Carl's signing is a statement of intent for the future and he won't be the final signing we announce in the days to come."
Fearns said: "I'm thrilled to be joining Gloucester Rugby. Historically they have been a powerhouse in English rugby and I'm looking forward to working with the players and coaches to help them achieve their ambitions.
"I've really enjoyed playing my rugby in France and I feel as though I have become a better player for it. I'm excited to return to the Premiership and get stuck in."
