London Irish confirm signing of Ireland international Paddy Jackson

Ireland international Paddy Jackson will feature in the Gallagher Premiership next season after he was signed by London Irish.

Jackson has played 25 Tests for Ireland between 2013 and 2017 and has contributed 195 points for the national side.

The 5ft 10in fly-half will head to Madejski Stadium from Perpignan and is the second major signing by the Exiles in recent times after Australia's Sekope Kepu.

Jackson is delighted to be part of the London Irish and is aiming to make a mark in the Premiership next season as they gained promotion after topping the Championship this season.

“I’m delighted to be joining London Irish next season at such an exciting and pivotal time for everyone involved with the club” Jackson commented.

“London Irish have a clear vision for where they want to be and I look forward to being part of it.”

Jackson will be a familiar face to London Irish director of rugby Declan Kidney and head coach Les Kiss. The 27-year-old got his first Ireland cap from Kidney in 2013 and has worked with Kiss in both the national team and Ulster.

“Players of the calibre of Paddy Jackson do not become available very often and both myself and Les are looking forward to working with him in the future” Kidney commented.

“He is a player with proven international quality who we feel will add value to our squad, and it is pleasing that Paddy sees London Irish as a part of his future.”