Furno prepares for move to North East
The 6’7” international, who will be moving to Kingston Park at the end of the current international season, said that advice from the former Falcon was part of the reason he chose to head North. “I know a few guys who’ve played for the Falcons but Carlo del Fava has really good things to say about the club, and the area.”
Furno, 24, isn’t yet too familiar with the North East but is already prepared for what to expect from his new hometown: “I haven’t spent much time in Newcastle yet, although I have been over to the UK a few times. From what I hear it’s quite cold and rainy, but that’s England I guess!
“Newcastle Falcons has always been a good team though and I hear that the fans are really passionate about rugby so that’s something I want to be involved in.
Furno goes on to explain that it was the vision of the club, and in particular of director of rugby Dean Richards, that attracted him to the Falcons initially. “When I spoke to Dean he told me about the big plans he has for next season and the future and it sounds as though he’s already building a big, strong team for that. I’ve wanted to play in the Aviva Premiership for a long time and am really excited to have this opportunity with the club.”
Originally hailing from Australia, Furno began his rugby career in Italy, playing for Viadana and Aironi before moving over to France where he spent time with RC Narbonne and, most recently, Top 14 side Biarritz.
Speaking of his move from the South of France Furno said: “Living in Biarritz has been good for me. I surf though and have heard that the North East is good for that too, although I guess I’ll need to get my winter wetsuit on!”
Collecting his first cap for Italy against against Scotland in 2011, the powerful second row has made 20 appearances for the Azzuri to date.
Speaking of a challenging international season so far he said: “At the moment the Italy team is going through a generation change. Even with myself I’ve only been in the side for a couple of years, and there are quite a few of us young guys coming through. But there’s great potential there for us as the team grows and develops together.
“Personally I’ve had a really good season so far and played five games for Italy in a row which is great. It’s always good to get that game time and it probably helped me out a lot with the Falcons too.”
With another game still to be played in Italy’s summer international season, Furno has just under a month to go until he lands in the region. He said: “I’ve spent the last couple of years in France and had a really good time, but I’m really looking forward to coming to the North East.”
Newcastle Falcons season tickets are now available for 2014-15 starting from only £200 with Under-11s season tickets free when purchased with a full paying adult. For more information or to get your season ticket click here or call the Falcons’ 24-hour Ticket Hotline on 0871 226 6060.
