Welsh great Liam Williams has joined Newcastle Red Bulls on the eve of the Gallagher PREM season, with the vastly-experienced full-back signing until the end of the campaign.

Insisting the fire still burns brightly at the age of 34, Williams is keen to continue a career which has already seen him winning the Premiership, URC, Champions Cup and Six Nations titles as well as helping his country to a Grand Slam and starring on two British & Irish Lions tours.

Capped 93 times by Wales and a further five by the Lions, the former Saracens, Scarlets, Cardiff and Kubota Spears man was a Six Nations starter for Wales as recently as this year.

Also able to play on the wing, the 6 foot 2 star said: “It’s a good opportunity to experience something new, and I can’t wait to get started.

“It’s an exciting time to be joining Newcastle with Red Bull taking over the club, and everything they’re able to bring to the sport.

“I came up to speak to Steve Diamond, to see the set-up and hear his plans for how it is all going to evolve, and I’m just keen to get into it.

“I want to challenge myself, and hopefully I’m able to add a bit of experience to the squad and help some of the younger guys to maximise their ability.”

Newcastle Red Bulls’ next game is on Friday when they host Williams’ former club Saracens in the opening round of the Gallagher PREM, with director of rugby Steve Diamond excited by the Welshman’s addition.

He said: “Liam has done it all in terms of domestic, European and international rugby, but his enthusiasm for the sport remains as strong as ever.

“At this stage in our journey he gives us the kind of experience we need, and he’s a proven winner.

“Throughout our conversations it was abundantly clear he just wants to perform at the highest level, and he’ll be a great influence on the other players in our environment.

“I’m looking forward to seeing his impact on and off the field, and it just continues the growing sense of excitement around the club at the moment.”

LIAM WILLIAMS BIOG

Position: Full-back/wing

Born: 9/4/91

Height: 188cm (6 foot 2)

Weight: 85kg (13 stone 5)

Honours: Wales, Lions.