Former Ireland international Toole links up again with Aston

Sheffield have signed former Ireland international centre Joshua Toole from Australian side Pritchard Mounties.

Toole, 28, played under Mark Aston for Ireland in the 2012 and 2014 European Cups as well as the 2013 World Cup, winning six caps.

He told the club’s official website: “I’m really excited about getting over to the UK and moving to Sheffield.

“I’ve heard some pretty good things about the club and I’m looking forward to ripping into pre-season, meeting the boys and getting started with this new challenge.

“I’ve worked with Tubbs (Mark Aston) before and it will be good to link up with him again at the Eagles.”

Toole is Sheffield’s seventh new signing as they prepare to return to the city for the 2018 season.

Aston added: “I’m pleased we’ve managed to bring Josh into the squad. He’s a good, talented kid and will certainly add to us next season.

“He’s a utility player and played at both centre and second row for me with Ireland so we’ll keep a close eye on him during pre-season and our friendlies in January to see where his best starting position will be.”