London Irish bolster front row stocks

London Irish has bolstered its front row options for next season by signing prop forward Will Goodrick-Clarke from Richmond.

The 23-year-old former Cheltenham College pupil has spent the past two seasons at Richmond, combining rugby with his studies at Oxford Brookes University.

Will spent one year in the Gloucester Academy before signing to play for Richmond at the Athletic Ground.

Goodrick-Clarke was named in The Rugby Paper’s 2018/19 Championship Dream Team, as voted for by the coaches from the 12 clubs in the league.

“I am excited to be signing for London Irish and looking forward to joining up for pre-season in June.” Goodrick-Clarke explained.

"Having played against London Irish this season, I know their current front rowers are great players, so I look forward to working with them next season."

Declan Kidney has been impressed by Goodrick-Clarke’s performances in the Championship and expects him to make the step up when he joins in the summer.

“Will has all the attributes that we are looking for in a prop. His set piece is solid and he works hard around the field. I’m delighted he will be a London Irish player next season.”

Conor Gilsenan and Lovejoy Chawatama have also extended their deals with London Irish.

Flanker Gilsenan has racked up 66 appearances since joining the Club in 2014. Lovejoy Chawatama has made 26 appearances, crossing for three tries since arriving at Hazelwood.

Declan Kidney is excited that the two players will remain with London Irish, saying “Conor and Lovejoy are both great clubmen. They work hard on the training ground and always represent the club well when they wear the London Irish colours. It is great that they have agreed to be with us next season.”