Noah Cato: Joining Championship promotion hopefuls Newcastle

Championship leaders Newcastle have signed winger Noah Cato from Northampton.

Cato was tipped as a future England international when he was at Saracens where he picked up an Aviva Premiership winners' medal and finished the club's top try scorer in the 2008-09 season.

But his move to Northampton has not been a success and he is rarely been part of the first XV.

"I am delighted to join Newcastle Falcons, and this is a good opportunity to get back to playing regular rugby," said Cato.

He played for the Saxons, England Sevens and England Under-20s, and his six tries in five matches were key in helping England win an Under-20s Grand Slam in 2008.

He joins Newcastle on a contract until the end of the season and he added: "To be a part of a club with the ambition of returning back to the Premiership presents an exciting time ahead for me.

"To assist in realising that goal will be a fulfilling experience. The club is very fortunate to have such great facilities, and what was immediately apparent to me was the warm welcome that I received."

Falcons director of rugby Dean Richards said: "Noah is a great addition to the squad, and I am delighted to welcome him to Kingston Park.

"He brings with him both club and international experience which is just what we require going into the play-offs."