FALCONS SNAP UP SECOND-ROW
Nagle, 25, who scooped Munster’s Young Player of the Year in 2010, brings composure and go-forward to the engine room as the Falcons strive to move up the Aviva Premiership ladder.
His man-of-the-match display against a touring Australia side at Thomond Park was the highlight of a solid 2009-10 campaign for The Red Army. The following season the Cork-born lock made two appearances for Ireland Wolfhounds against England Saxons and Scotland ‘A’ respectively and his impressive form earned him a call-up to the Ireland training squad for the 2012 Six Nations Championships.
Standing at 6ft 6” and weighing in at just over 18 stone, the former Ireland Under-20 and Under-19 was part of the Munster side that won the 2011-12 British and Irish Cup.
“I’m delighted to have the opportunity to test myself in the Aviva Premiership and help Newcastle Falcons move up the table,” said Nagle.
He added: “Looking at the fixture list there are some big teams to play against in the next few weeks and they are the games that you relish and want to be involved in as a professional rugby player.”
Nagle trained with his new teammates today alongside fellow new recruit Lee Smith, with the winger joining from Wakefield Trinity Wildcats.
“The lads have made me feel very welcome at Kingston Park and I’m really excited at the challenge that lies ahead,” added Nagle, who joins former Munster colleague Danny Barnes in the North East.
Newcastle director of rugby Dean Richards said: “I’m delighted that we have been able to bring in a second-row of the calibre of Ian.
“We have been watching Ian’s progress for a while now, and he’s a great addition to the pack as we enter the business end of the season.”
