Andy Symons is the latest player to join Northampton Saints’ ranks from the 2018/19 season onwards, with the Club announcing the centre’s switch from Gloucester Rugby today.
The 26-year-old will trade Kingsholm for Franklin’s Gardens next season, having agreed a deal to move to the East Midlands. Symons, who also counts Leicester Tigers and Tasman Makos amongst his former clubs, has made 20 appearances to date for the Cherry & Whites since his 2016 move from fellow Aviva Premiership outfit Worcester Warriors. And with Taqele Naiyaravoro, Will Davis, Ben Franks and Dom Barrow all signing for the Club in recent weeks, Saints’ squad for the 2018/19 campaign is starting to take shape. “I’m hugely excited to be joining up with Northampton Saints next season,” said Symons. “The options at centre at Franklin’s Gardens are already exceptional, and I’m relishing the thought of testing myself alongside the likes of Rob Horne, Luther Burrell, and Piers Francis. “Coming to Northampton with an opposition shirt on has always been an intimidating experience; I can’t wait to have such as passionate group of supporters behind me next year. “Saints’ ambition to succeed is clear to see from the players and coaches they’ve already got on board, and I want to play my part.” Symons started out his career with Saracens Amateurs and Old Albanians, but after linking up with the Saracens Academy, a bold move to New Zealand beckoned for his first taste of professional rugby. After spending a season playing for Tasman in the ITM Cup, Symons then returned to the UK to join Worcester Warriors in 2013 – via Leicester Tigers’ sevens side. Making his debut in the Anglo-Welsh Cup later that year, the centre opened his Aviva Premiership account with a debut score against the Tigers. Standing at 6’5” tall, Symons soon made his impression in the Premiership and made over 50 appearances for the Sixways outfit before switching to Gloucester in 2016. Despite an injury-hit first campaign with the Cherry & Whites, he has made a big impact this term and established himself in the first team at Kingsholm.
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NEWS: Saints sign Symons
Posted by: Marching On (IP Logged)
Date: 26/03/2018 19:56
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Gives us options for a style of play. Don’t expect him to make most first team squads but brings a reliable defence, go forward ball off first phase and decent hands from 7’s. I personally think he adds more than Stephenson, Hutchinson and Nafi (in centres) does so think it’s good business. Although I am ready for a backlash as that opinion will be unpopular!
You have to think this is a "squad" signing to replace anticipated leavers which could include Stephenson and Hutchinson, though possibly not Tuitavake who doubles up as a winger.
Recruitment seems to be nearing its end although a genuine no. 8 would be welcome and another lock. Second row options, IF the departure rumours turn out to be right, would appear to be choices from Lawes, Ribbans,Barrow, Ratuniyarawa and Moon.Who will replace Day as caller if he leaves ?
My only concern is that he has moved around a few times without emerging as a regular first team player elsewhere. What do we see that would elevate him beyond that? Or is he a back up signing
Walks11 My only concern is that he has moved around a few times without emerging as a regular first team player elsewhere. What do we see that would elevate him beyond that? Or is he a back up signing
I would suggest a back up to Luther so we can replace like for like if Luther gets injured and play the same game plan. Currently we have to switch styles and play with a lighter distributer 12 in Francis Stephenson or hutch
Walks11 My only concern is that he has moved around a few times without emerging as a regular first team player elsewhere. What do we see that would elevate him beyond that? Or is he a back up signing
That’s what I was thinking!
So has Francis.
Provides good cover which will be needed I am sure. Plus another strong ball carrier who hopefully can straighten a line and break a tackle.
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