Flood targets bigger things after sealing his switch to 'world class' Tigers - Sport - Evening Standard
       

Flood targets bigger things after sealing his switch to 'world class' Tigers

Guinness Premiership finalists Leicester have confirmed their long-expected
capture of England back Toby Flood.

The 22-year-old, who is tipped to take the number 10 shirt at Welford Road
after opting to leave Newcastle but can also play at inside centre, will link up
with his Tigers team-mates ahead of the new season after returning from
England's tour of New Zealand.

"Leicester is a world-class club and the ambition of the club is very exciting
for me," said Flood.

England first, then Leicester: Toby Flood avoids team-mate Danny Care in New Zealand

England first, then Leicester: Toby Flood avoids team-mate Danny Care in New Zealand

"I am sad to leave home and to leave Newcastle where I have very fond memories, but at this stage of my rugby career a new challenge is very important.

"This is an exciting challenge and it is one that I could not turn down. I am looking forward to getting stuck in at Leicester in pre-season training."

Flood has not been selected in the match-day 22 for England's opening Test
against the All Blacks at Eden Park on Saturday.

He has 17 caps to his name since making his international debut in November
2006 and was called up as an injury replacement for last autumn's World Cup -
eventually making appearances in all the knockout rounds, including the final
defeat to South Africa.

Leicester chairman Peter Tom said: "Toby Flood is an ambitious and talented
young player with good experience at Premiership and international level.

"We are sure he will be a valuable addition to an already competitive squad
and we are looking forward to his arrival in preparation for the new season."

It is the club's second major announcement in five days after they sacked coach
Marcelo Loffreda on Friday following an indifferent first season in charge.

Flood follows back-row Ben Woods as the second player to move from Kingston
Park to the east midlands club this summer.

Flood has not been selected in the match-day 22 for England's opening Test
against the All Blacks at Eden Park on Saturday.

He has 17 caps to his name since making his international debut in November
2006 and was called up as an injury replacement for last autumn's World Cup -
eventually making appearances in all the knockout rounds, including the final
defeat to South Africa.

Leicester chairman Peter Tom said: "Toby Flood is an ambitious and talented
young player with good experience at Premiership and international level.

"We are sure he will be a valuable addition to an already competitive squad
and we are looking forward to his arrival in preparation for the new season."

It is the club's second major announcement in five days after they sacked coach
Marcelo Loffreda on Friday following an indifferent first season in charge.




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