Rugby:Munster confirmed today that Northampton Saints centre James Downey will be joining them at the end of the current season on a two year contract.

The 30 year, who previous played with the province for one season (2006-2007) moved to the Saints from Munster and now has agreed to make the return journey. He was highly regarded at Franklin’s Gardens, making 135 appearances and scoring 12 tries.

A Churchill Cup winner with Ireland in June 2009 he began his career in Leinster before moving to Connacht for two seasons and now returns to Munster on a two year contract. Coach Tony McGahan enthused: “James is a quality player who has been on our radar for some time now.

“We’ve seen at first hand, on several occasion in recent times in the Heineken Cup exactly what he has to offer and believe that his style and his attitude can only enhance our squad.”