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Falcons sign former Saracens wing Obatoyinbo
By Kim Ekin
Newcastle Falcons have confirmed the signing of 23-year-old Elliott Obatoyinbo on a short-term deal.
The former Saracen - who plays across the back-three - will join the Falcons for the next two months, where he'll act as cover both on the wing and fullback.
“I left Saracens after last season, I’ve been looking for a club and I’m happy that Newcastle have given me this opportunity,” said Obatoyinbo.
“I’m only just starting today after coming up over the weekend, and I’m excited to get involved. I’m here for two months, but who knows after that. Hopefully it will be for longer.
“Saracens has been a great environment with some outstanding players and I learned a lot during my time there, but I’m excited about this new opportunity.
“I know Nathan Earle from our time together at Sarries, and we’re from similar backgrounds so we get on well. I also know Josh Barton from when I was out at London Scottish, but I’m looking forward to getting to know everyone else and hopefully making a positive contribution.”
“I’ll play anywhere across the back three, but if you were to press me I’d say I probably prefer full-back. I grew up playing there mostly, but I don’t mind either way to be honest.
“My high-ball skills and back-field coverage are both aspects I would hope to bring to the team, but I’d say my X-factor would be my footwork, speed and ability to beat a man.
“I enjoy the defensive elements of it as well as what I’d hope to show in attack, and I’ll be working my hardest to take this opportunity.”
Newcastle head coach Dave Walder said: “Elliott is a talented player who gives us lots of options at a time when we have a number of injuries and a packed programme of fixtures.
“He comes highly-rated from his time at Saracens, he has a lot of ability and I’m looking forward to seeing what he can add to our group.”
A former Harrow and Stonyhurst schoolboy, Obatoyinbo made 32 appearances during his four seasons with Saracens after coming through their academy, also playing on dual-registration for London Scottish, Ampthill and Old Albanians.
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