Talented Argentine back signs for London Irish

<1r>London Irish confirmed today (9th May) that Tomas De Vedia will join the club for the start of the new season. The young Argentine back has signed a two year contract that will keep him with the Exiles until the end of the 2008-09 season.

Tomas moves to the Exiles after a season with Saracens. Another product of the famous San Isidro Club in Buenos Aires, he was the leading try scorer in Argentina's primary club competition the season before his move to this country.

The 24 year old can play on the wing or at centre or full back, however it's been from the wing where he has attracted international attention and earned a place in the Argentina 'A' and Sevens squads. He also played at Under 21 and Under 19 levels. He has just been selected for the Argentina squad to play Ireland in June.

Commenting on his move to London Irish, Tomas said: 'My first season in England has been reassuring in that I proved that I can compete at the top level of club rugby. I'm looking forward to adding to my experience at London Irish and to playing with my friends and fellow countrymen, Gonzalo Tiesi and Juan Leguizamon.'

London Irish's Director of Rugby Brian Smith said: 'Tomas is a try-scoring winger who can also play at centre and full back. He is a big guy who will take some stopping. He joins us after a season in the Premiership where he has proved his potential by scoring seven tries in 18 appearances.

'Tomas joins an exciting group of talented backs that will give us great attacking potential next season. Any combination of Delon Armitage, Mike Catt, Shane Geraghty, Eoghan Hickey, Paul Hodgson, Seilala Mapusua, Nils Mordt, Topsy Ojo, Peter Richards, Dominic Shabbo, Jeremy Staunton, Sailosi Tagicakibau and Gonzalo Tiesi is sure to provide a real threat to any opposition and an attractive prospect for our supporters,' added Smith.

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