Murray agrees move to Newcastle Falcons

Dec 23 2010 The Journal

NEWCASTLE Falcons have demonstrated they are once again able to make a real impact in the transfer market by signing highly-rated Scotland and Lions prop Euan Murray.

The 30-year-old, who has signed a two-and-a-half-year contract, had been a free agent since his contract at Northampton Saints was terminated by mutual consent.

Capped by Scotland 34 times, the 6ft 1’ prop brings a wealth of experience to Kingston Park.

Murray becomes the Falcons’ first major signing since Jordanian-born businessman Semore Kurdi secured a 40% stake in the club. A host of Premiership clubs were interested in signing the player but Murray has chosen to link up with fellow Scot Alan Tait at Kingston Park.

One stumbling block for the Falcons, however, could be Murray’s refusal to play on a Sunday, with the deeply religious tighthead prop having publicly stated his intention to observe the day of rest. Only four of Falcons’ remaining Aviva Premiership games are due to take place on a Sunday, but that could increase depending on television schedules.

Following the crucial basement battle with Leeds on Boxing Day, the Falcons travel to Wasps on Sunday, January 2 meaning Murray will have to wait until the following Friday to make his Kingston Park debut against Sale. Despite that availability issue, Falcons head coach Tait is thrilled to have secured such a quality signing.

“Our preferred time to play our games is a Friday night and while some games do get moved for television, we will have Euan available for more games than we would most current international players,” said Tait.

Murray admitted he can’t wait to pull on the Falcons jersey.

“I’m delighted with my move to Newcastle,” said Murray. “The move up to Newcastle was the best option for me and my family.”

Chairman Dave Thompson is pleased to have snapped up the experienced front row man, saying: “The board of directors and Alan have looked at the potential fixture lists very closely for the coming seasons, and with Saracens owning their ground next season it is likely that only Wasps and Irish will play their home games on a Sunday.

“You lose most internationals throughout the Six Nations. However, Scotland play England on a Sunday and if we can re-arrange the Bath game for the Friday night of that weekend, then Euan would be available for that.”