Pollard's understudy swaps Leicester for Gloucester

TRANSFER NEWS: Gloucester confirmed the immediate signing of flyhalf Charlie Atkinson, who arrives from Leicester Tigers on a permanent deal.

Oxford-born Atkinson, 22, has made 49 Premiership appearances since his senior debut in 2020.

Capped for England Under-20, Atkinson was part of the Grand Slam winning side in 2021, and latterly was invited to the England senior squad training camp in June last year.

With double World Cup winner Handre Pollard firmly the first choice at flyhalf for Leicester Tigers and Jamie Shillcock getting plenty of game time, Atkinson has fallen down the pecking order.

The move is a great opportunity for the 22-year-old with loads of Premiership experience and a bright future.

Director of Rugby, George Skivington, welcomed Atkinson to the club: “We’re really pleased to secure Charlie’s services. He’s a really talented young player and will add to the depth and quality we already have here at the Club in the number 10 shirt.

“He’s a player that we have admired since his time at Wasps and we think he will be a good fit for us.

“I know he’s really keen to get started with us, so we’ll integrate him into our programme this week and I’m sure the supporters will see him run out in a Gloucester shirt before long.”

Atkinson is also relishing his fresh start at Kingsholm.

“I’m really looking forward to joining Gloucester next week,” said the 22-year-old.

“It’s a great opportunity for me to join a good group of players and staff and I’m excited to make my mark.

“I’ve enjoyed my time in Leicester over the last year, but Kingsholm is a place I’ve always relished playing at because the fans make an incredible atmosphere, so it’ll be nice having them on my side now!”

“I can’t wait to get out there in a Cherry & White jersey.”

Atkinson will join the squad this week ahead of facing Harlequins at Twickenham on Saturday