Wednesday 9 July 2014 12:08, UK
London Broncos have signed Italy's World Cup hooker Ray Nasso on a two-year deal from 2015.
The Australian-born Nasso, 27, who has won seven caps for the Azzurri, has spent the last two seasons playing for French club Avignon after previously being with Manly and Parramatta.
Nasso, who is expected to be a straight replacement for Castleford-bound hooker Scott Moore, is the second confirmed signing for the Broncos, who could be relegated from Super League this weekend.
He joins former Salford half-back Liam Foran and renews an old acquaintance with London coach Joey Grima.
"I've coached Ray for five years in the Parramatta district as an up-and-coming first grader," Grima said. "Having had a relationship with him, he knows the style of play that I like to play. He'll be very important and an integral part of the formation I want to run next year.
"Ray's had a tremendous career, particularly at the back end of last year and the RLWC2013 where he was involved in the Italian side. He was voted the Italian player of the tournament and players such as Anthony Minichiello felt that he was capable of playing in the NRL.
He comes with a lot of experience both offensively and defensively, he's going to be a huge asset and more so to the culture we're going to get off the field as much as on the field.
"That didn't come to fruition, however, and he decided to stay in France and this was an outstanding chance for us to sign him.
"He comes with a lot of experience both offensively and defensively, he's going to be a huge asset and more so to the culture we're going to get off the field as much as on the field."
Nasso said: "I'm very happy and looking forward to be playing next season for the Broncos. I spoke with Joey about his goals and plans next season and the future and it's all very exciting.
"Having been coached by Joey when I was younger and speaking to him about what he wants to do with the club I thought it would be a good fit for me. I'm looking forward to being part of the club as it looks to move forward.
"It was an awesome experience playing in the UK during RLWC 2013 and it's something I will never forget. I really enjoyed playing in the UK so I was keen to come back here."
