Powell has scored one try for Worcester this season

Northampton Saints have signed Wales international scrum-half Ryan Powell from Worcester.

The 29-year-old has made 78 appearances for the Warriors, scoring 25 points, and has three caps for Wales having also captained the country's 'A' team.

"Everything about the Saints is great, in my opinion," said Powell.

"They've got a never-say-die attitude and know where the try-line is. Their play is hard to defend against. It could be an exciting future."

Powell added: "When I came to the Saints to chat with Jim and the coaches, it was clear that they want to move forward and push on as a club to try and be one of the best teams in England and in Europe.

"Playing on the pitch is like playing on a bowling green, and the support for the Saints gives the stadium a great buzz."

Ryan has pace, technical ability and experience Saints director Jim Mallinder

"Playing for them, I imagine, is going to be magnificent."

Powell was involved in the 2008 European Challenge Cup final with Worcester whose relegation from the Premiership was confirmed on Saturday.

He previously spent seven seasons at Cardiff Blues, making more than 150 appearances and playing regularly in the Heineken Cup.

"It'll be a big buzz playing back in the Heineken Cup and although I still have ambitions to play for Wales again my first priority will be making the number nine jersey at the Saints my own," he said.

"The coaches at Worcester have done a lot for me over the last four seasons and it's unfortunate that we're in the situation we are.

606: DEBATE Is Powell a good signing for Northampton?

"The supporters have been magnificent, too, turning out in their thousands no matter where we are in the league and they made me feel very welcome when I moved up from Wales."

Saints director of rugby Jim Mallinder said: "Ryan has pace, technical ability and experience, all of which will be useful as we prepare for another challenging season.

"He has shown over the years that he is a consistent performer who has played at all levels of the game, including internationals and the Heineken Cup.

"Ryan will certainly bring more quality and strength in depth and the competition for places will increase the standards in the squad."

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