Toulon land replacement for Wallaby Jake Gordon who exits without playing

Toulon have this Thursday confirmed the arrival of a new World Cup joker, experienced scrumhalf Michael Young.

Young joins the team from Newcastle Falcons and will be stepping in for Wallaby Jake Gordon, whose time at the club was cut short due to a “severe” concussion.

Director of rugby Pierre Mignoni confirmed that the club has now secured the 34-year-old’s signature to fill that void left by Gordan. Young has been a key player at Newcastle Falcons since 2015, making him a valuable asset for Toulon.

“A club player, Michael is a fine strategist and a good finisher. Lively, he is able to weigh around the rucks. He will also bring all his experience to the group. Having been captain of Newcastle at several times and especially at the end of last season, in the absence of Will Welch.”

He will now be part of the squad for the entire duration of the World Cup, which takes place from September 8 to October 28.

The decision to bring in Young came after Gordon had to depart the club following an injury sustained before he travelled to France. Gordon was initially recruited as a World Cup player, but due to the severity of his concussion, he could no longer continue with the team having failed a medical.

Gordon’s concussion occurred during a match against Tonga on July 12, while he was representing Australia A.