Samoan crowd favourite Filo Paulo is back for a second stint in Wales

Cardiff Blues have turned to an old crowd favourite to bolster their pack until the end of the season. 

Samoan international Filo Paulo, the 6ft 8in lock who tips the scales at more than 19 stone, is returning to the Welsh capital for a second stint having played for the Arms Park club between 2013 and 2015. He will link up with the squad later this week.

The 32-year-old, who has 34 caps international, has also had stints at Super Rugby’s Blues, Benetton Rugby and London Irish.

Paulo, who can also feature in the back row, played in three of Samoa’s recent World Cup games in Japan and Cardiff are hoping he will bring an increased physical edge and ball-carrying presence to their pack. 

Head coach John Mulvihill was pleased to welcome back the lock following injuries to the likes of Ellis Jenkins, Josh Navidi and most recently Rory Thornton.

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“We’re really happy to welcome Filo into the squad. He was a really popular member within the squad during his first period here and he will be an important addition, especially with the season set to intensify over the next couple of months.

“He’s a big man who can add some bulk to our options in the second row and we’re looking forward to seeing his contributions both on and off the field.

ICYMI: It was nearly three weeks ago when @heagneyl suggested the writing was on the wall for the Irishman at Ospreys…
– Now reports claims he has been released, although the club have yet to officially confirm they have parted ways https://t.co/csooWstxXM

— RugbyPass (@RugbyPass) November 26, 2019

“He’s very excited to return here. He really enjoyed his time here before moving to Italy and we’re hoping he can bring his recent experiences from the World Cup to become a useful player for us between now and the end of the season.”

Paulo, who arrives in Wales later this week, will report to training with the squad with a view to being available for selection for the December 7 Challenge Cup clash against Pau.

WATCH: RugbyPass looks back on some of our favourite moments with the fans at the 2019 World Cup in Japan