Saints coach West relishing the chance to work with Gibson

The 24-year-old flanker will cross the east midlands divide when he swaps Leicester for Northampton this summer.

It is the first time a player has moved between the two clubs since Ryan Lamb left Franklin’s Gardens for Welford Road in 2013.

And West can’t wait to work with Gibson, who is a player he has admired for some time.

“I’m really pleased to sign him,” said the Saints forwards coach. “He’s a quality player with a really big future.

“He’s played a lot of rugby over the past few years and proved his worth. He’s someone we think can fit into our squad and who will challenge for selection.

“He’ll keep everything competitive and we think he’s got a lot to offer.

“We remember him playing for London Irish and that ball carrying and work rate around the pitch is similar to some of the lads we’ve got here so he’ll fit in nicely.

“He’s still only very young, he’s a bright lad, 24. We think he’s got a big future and we’re really looking forward to working with him.”