Scottish International loose head prop Jon Welsh has become Newcastle Falcons’ latest signing for 2015/16 agreeing a switch from Glasgow Warriors on a two year deal.
The 28 year old loose head arrives with an impressive record, having made a total of 106 starts for the Warriors, with whom he has played throughout his professional career since signing terms in 2008.
Standing 6’ 1” and weighing 17st 7lb, his ability and consistent performances have earned him not only plaudits from pundits, but have also seen him make four appearances for Scotland.
His most recent cap came in this year’s RBS 6 Nations tournament, coming off the bench to score a 79th minute try.
A Glasgow man to the core, he was educated at Eastwood High School in Newton Mearns. Before signing a professional contract he had had three seasons with Glasgow Hutchesons’ Aloysians where he was a key figure with his all-round performances.
Speaking about his move to the North East, Welsh said: “I think Newcastle are a club with a big future and definitely want to go places and for me personally, it’s the challenge of being able to come down and compete in the Premiership.”
“I love Glasgow, I’m from here and all my family is here. This is my seventh season at the club and I think at 28, its good timing for change and to challenge myself in a new environment where the ambitions are high.”
Falcons Director of Rugby Dean Richards said: “Jon is a player who comes with a great pedigree and has been a key feature of a Warriors team that is a consistent force in the Pro 12 and one that will add further quality to our front row options.”
“He looked very sharp in the six nations and hopefully will add to his four caps to date by impressing out in a Falcons shirt.”
“At 28 he is starting to approach his peak years as a prop and I am sure with the experience he has already amassed will help him be a key part of our plans going forward.”