Northampton gain Samoan 'Ace'

 

The 25-year-old full back, nicknamed 'Ace', will pack a physical punch in the Saints' backline with his imposing frame.

 

Tuala trained with both the New Zealand Under-20s and New Zealand Sevens squads before turning his focus on representing the land of his birth, which he did in Samoa's 2014 November international against Canada.

 

At provincial level he has played 51 times for Counties Manukau in New Zealand's NPC Cup, scoring 166 points.

 

Tuala is already training at Franklin's Gardens and will be available for selection in this weekend's LV= Cup Round Four game against Wasps.

 

Director of rugby Jim Mallinder says that he has the potential to make an impact in the Saints' run-in.

 

"Ben Foden's unfortunate injury means that we need cover at fullback ahead of what is a challenging few months for us," he said.

 

"Ahsee is a quality player who can play in a number of positions, and is well known to our other Samoan internationals, who will no doubt help him fit into the culture here at Northampton and the way we do things.

 

"We're looking forward to seeing him in action."