Booth buoyed by competitive Exiles

My Account
Logout

Create an Evening Standard Account

Use your social network

Save time by using your existing account to sign in to Evening Standard

We'll never share your information or post anything to your account without your permission

Welcome! Sign in here

Use your social network

Save time by using your existing account to sign in to Evening Standard

We'll never share your information or post anything to your account without your permission

Forgot your password ?

Registration

* indicates fields that are mandatory

Email *

Password *

Confirm Password *

First name *

Surname *

Postcode *

Country *

Mobile phone number

Username *

Gender *

Year of birth *

When you sign up...

You will have access to all our online competitions, discounted offers and can post comments on our site.

You will also receive The Weekender newsletter sent every Thursday - it’s full of fantastic offers and ideas for the weekend. You can update your email preferences in your account page when you log in.

Other newsletters and emails

Homes & Property Newsletter - Yes I want to receive the weekly email with all the latest news on property in the capital

Occasionally we would also like to send you relevant emails detailing specific offers either from ourselves or carefully selected partners. If you would prefer not to receive these then please tick the appropriate boxes below. We will never pass on your details.

I do not want to receive additional offers and information from the Evening Standard

I do not want to receive additional offers and information sent by Evening Standard on behalf of carefully selected partners

Terms and Conditions

* I have read, understood and agree to be bound by the terms and conditions of Evening Standard

Registration

Mail Sent for Registration Confirmation.

A confirmation email has been sent. Please activate your account by clicking on the activation link sent in your mail box.

Irish, pipped for the title by Leicester last term, return to Twickenham - scene of that 10--9 Premiership final defeat - on Saturday where they tackle London double-header opponents Saracens.

"We are excited about the coming season. We want to perform consistently in the Premiership and fight for a place at the top end of the table. Being back in the Heineken Cup and doing justice to ourselves is also important," said Booth. "We have recruited a squad that will enable us to compete in both tournaments."

He added: "In my opinion, the squad is the most competitive the club has had in the professional era. If the players can stay healthy, then we will be there or thereabouts at the end of the season."

Former Gloucester fly-half Ryan Lamb was Irish's main pre-season signing, off-setting the departure of Shane Geraghty to Northampton, while current French national team defence coach Dave Ellis has agreed a one-year contract with the Exiles.

"We are committed to improving the quality of our programme in pursuit of success," added Booth.

"Dave has a proven track record at international level. We're delighted at his appointment and the added value it brings to our coaching resources."