JERRY SEXTON has completed a permanent move to London Irish.
The 23-year-old spent the latter half of last season on loan with the Exiles from then Aviva Premiership rivals Exeter Chiefs, making six appearances for the side.
Sexton was unable to help the team fend off eventual relegation to the Greene King IPA Championship, but is now back at Madejski Stadium with a point to prove.
“I’m pleased to have made my move to London Irish permanent and I’m really looking forward to helping the club achieve its ultimate goal of promotion back to the Aviva Premiership at the first time of asking,” said former Ireland Under-20 international Sexton.
“The facilities here at Hazelwood are second to none and the infrastructure is in place for the club to realise its long-term ambitions.
“London Irish is a family club built on a rich history and tradition and I’m delighted to have signed for the club.”
Sexton is a product of the Lenister Academy, but the Dublin-born lock would move to French second division side Auch in 2011 without playing a game for the PRO12 side.
He was snapped up by the Chiefs in 2014, where he would remain until Irish came calling earlier this year.
“Jerry bolsters our options in the pack and is a solid acquisition ahead of the new season,” added head of rugby operations Glenn Delaney.
“Since joining the club on loan earlier this year, Jerry has taken his opportunity in the side and I’m sure he will relish more game time next term.”
The signing of Sexton is likely to be welcome news to Irish fans who were told on Monday both Alex Lewington and Theo Brophy Clews are to miss the start of the new season with injuries picked up while on international duty.
