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• Northampton

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• John Rudd

Newcastle Falcons have swooped to sign John Rudd on a two-year contract.

The winger moves to Kingsholm from Guinness Premiership rivals Northampton Saints.

Falcons coach Rob Andrew believes that the 21-year-old will a bring a "different dimension" to his side's game next season.

"He has been unlucky at Northampton to only receive limited chances due to the likes of Ben Cohen and Sean Lamont being in the team," Andrew said.

"We already have huge pace in the wide areas with the likes of Anthony Elliott, Tom May, Ollie Phillips and James Hoyle, so John's powerful style of play gives us more flexibility to adapt our game plan.

"He has played on the wing and can also slot in to the centres, which could be very important over the next couple of seasons if we lose our whole midfield during the international windows and next season's Rugby World Cup."