Olmstead returns to Newcastle
The 28-year-old was part of the Falcons squad which last season achieved their best finish for 20 years, ending up fourth in the Premiership table and making three semi-finals.
Making 28 appearances in his two seasons on Tyneside Olmstead left the club last summer to help Auckland win New Zealand’s Mitre 10 Cup final, and as recently as three weeks ago was in pre-season action for Super Rugby side the Blues.
Landing in Newcastle over the weekend and immediately coming into the selection pool for this Sunday’s Gallagher Premiership visit of Worcester Warriors, the 27-times-capped Canadian said: “I’m excited to be back in Newcastle re-connecting with the players, staff and supporters.
“I hope to make a positive impact over the rest of the season – I really enjoyed my two years with the Falcons and it definitely feels like I’m returning to my home from home.”
Director of rugby Dean Richards said: “Evan is a proven player at this level and we know exactly what we are getting, so it’s a signing which makes perfect sense.
“He offers us athleticism and aggression around the park, he is a good line-out option who can play at lock or in the back row and he understands the way we want to play the game.
“He has done really well in New Zealand in winning some silverware with Auckland, he has kept himself sharp by working with the Blues during their Super Rugby pre-season and he is already with us over here after arriving over the weekend.
“Everyone knows what a huge run-in we have to the Gallagher Premiership season, and we will be stronger for having Evan on board with us.”
Newcastle Falcons’ next game is at home to Worcester Warriors on Sunday. Tickets for the 3pm kick-off are available by [**clicking here**][1].
[1]: https://www.eticketing.co.uk/newcastle-falcons/EDP/Event/Index/1385
