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Wasps sign Jones and Johnson

2012-04-11 05:36:02

London Wasps have confirmed the arrival of Wales fly-half Stephen Jones and Springbok loose forward Ashley Johnson amongst four new signings

The international duo will be joined at Adams Park by Leeds tighthead prop Phil Swainston and Ospreys prop Will Taylor, as well as returning England internationals Tom Palmer and James Haskell.

The Aviva Premiership club are in grave danger of going into administration unless they can attract new investment by the end of the campaign, following the collapse of takeover talks.

Despite the club desperately seeking investment, 34-year-old Jones - who has 104 Test caps - has agreed to move to the Premiership strugglers on a two-year deal.

Jones said that having spent time in France with Clermont for two years, it was also important and key for him to play in England during his career. 

“I feel this is the right time to move on at this stage in my rugby career,” said Jones.

“The Scarlets are showing such promise and have plenty to build on for the future with a very talented group of emerging players who are only going to go from strength to strength now.”

London Wasps CEO Chris Thomas said the club were pleased secured these excellent signings although their priority now is concluding a deal which will secure their financial future.

“While everyone is aware that the club is seeking investment as a matter of urgency at the moment, in terms of player recruitment and retention, like every other club at this time, we have been working hard to continue to put our squad together for next season,” said Thomas.

Johnson began his career as a hooker but a move to the back row in recent seasons has seen him excel at both Super Rugby and provincial level with the Cheetahs - his performances earning him a first call-up for the Springboks in 2009. He won three caps in the 2011 Tri-Nations.

Swainston made 26 appearances for Leeds last season in the Premiership, having experienced rugby for England at U18 and U20 level, though his appearances this season have been curtailed through injury.

Taylor is a young prop with a rising reputation in Wales with experience at international U18 and U20 level already under his belt. The youngster, who is keen to develop his career under the tutelage of former Wales and Lions prop Dai Young, made his PRO12 debut earlier this season.