Gloucester Rugby’s recent focus recently has been very much upon retention, but the club is delighted to confirm this week the signing of Jamal Ford-Robinson from the Northampton Saints who will link up with the Cherry and Whites this summer.
The 25-year-old prop, who can operate on both sides of the scrum, has spent the past two seasons at Franklin’s Gardens, making 23 appearances in his first season with the Saints.
He made the move to Northampton following a stint at Bristol Rugby. At the end of the 2016-17 season, he featured in the England side that took on the Barbarians at Twickenham and was then called up to the England squad’s tour of Argentina.
✍🏼 "Alexa, play me another signing announcement video…."
— Gloucester Rugby (@gloucesterrugby) March 27, 2019
🚁 😂 pic.twitter.com/zKJU2zCnKx
A graduate of the Leicester Tigers Academy, he also spent time in the Championship with the Cornish Pirates before joining Bristol.
Ford-Robinson’s ability to play both loosehead and tighthead, as well as his powerful ball-carrying in the loose will make him a valuable addition to the squad according to Director of Rugby David Humphreys.
“Having strength in depth in all positions throughout the squad is vital for any team to be successful. And it’s important that we have a group of props who are all capable of performing at the highest level.
✍🏼 NEW SIGNING
— Gloucester Rugby (@gloucesterrugby) March 27, 2019
We are delighted to confirm the signing of prop @jfordrob ahead of the 2019-20 season! 💪🏽
Welcome Jamal! pic.twitter.com/PlXyYNRCsf
“Jamal certainly meets those requirements. He’s a proven force at Premiership level and has been involved with the England set-up in the past. As well as being strong in the set-piece, he’s also mobile and good with ball in hand which will suit the way we like to play the game.
“His arrival will complement our existing front row forwards, and we’re happy with how that area of the squad is shaping up for next season as they will all have a role to play.”