Injury-hit Harlequins bolster their midfield options with Penny deal

Newcastle Falcons centre Tom Penny has signed for Harlequins until the end of the 2019/20 season.

The 25-year-old has been brought into a Harlequins squad currently sitting sixth in the Gallagher Premiership to reinforce Paul Gustard and his coaching team’s options after a number of injuries.

With a host of first-team players injured/unavailable in the centre position such as Ben Tapuai, Joe Marchant, Francis Saili and most recently James Lang, Harlequins boss Paul Gustard believes that Penny, who can also operate at wing or full-back, will slot into the squad quickly.

“We are delighted to be able to bring Tom to the club. With our deepening injury list, we have been looking for suitable reinforcements and Tom is a player we have admired for a long time” said Gustard.

“He has a very good reputation as a player but, importantly, also as a person. He has a comprehensive skill set and the ability to play in multiple positions. With four centres currently out long term and two full-backs, his coverage is essential.

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Penny said: “Harlequins is one of the great club rugby sides in the game, and a dream for any player to be able to run out at the Stoop.

“I can’t wait to be back playing in the Premiership this season and will be giving my all to Harlequins in my time here, fighting hard to earn the right to play and learn from a group of talented players and coaches.”

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