Aussie Rooney to replace Latham

Rooney plays alongside Jonny Wilkinson at Toulon

Worcester Warriors have signed former Australia rugby league international Luke Rooney as a replacement for full-back Chris Latham.

The 26-year-old is currently playing for Toulon in France and will join Worcester in the summer.

"He is a big strong full-back with a massive boot, the nearest I have seen to someone who plays like Latham," said director of rugby Mike Ruddock.

Rooney played six times for Australia before changing codes in 2008.

Ruddock first took notice of Rooney when he saw him play for Toulon, where he is a team-mate of the likes of Jonny Wilkinson and Felipe Contepomi, in the Challenge Cup.

"He caught my eye with a big performance against Saracens," said Ruddock.

I now look forward to making the move, getting out on the field and pulling on a Worcester jersey for the first time Worcester Warrior's new signing Luke Rooney

"Then I looked at a number of other games, and it became obvious he is a very talented player.

Rooney has admitted his move is partly motivated by his ambitions of playing for England, whom he qualifies for through his parents.

He was part of the Penrith Panthers 2003 NRL-winning side, scoring two tries in the Grand Final, and scored five tries in 16 matches last season for Toulon.

"I've been watching the league closely in the last few seasons, and I'm really excited to become a part of it," said Rooney.

"The move to rugby union has really seen my game move up to a new level, and I know that will continue at Worcester.

"Looking around Sixways, it's clear how much ambition there is for the club to become one of Europe's leading teams.

"I now look forward to making the move, getting out on the field and pulling on a Worcester jersey for the first time."

Meanwhile, Warriors are hopeful the home game with London Irish on Saturday, 9 January will go ahead.

They have a hot air dome covering the pitch, but the problem will be access to the ground.

The club will be consulting with police and ambulance officials in the next two days.

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