LYMM RFC have announced the signing of former Samoan rugby union international Johnny Leota.

The 37-year-old, who represented Samoa in the 2011 and 2015 Rugby World Cups, has joined Lymm for the remainder of the 2021/22 season.

Previous links with Lymm’s forward coach Curtis Langdon and centre Ben Stansfield during his eight-year spell at Sale Sharks helped Leota in his decision to join the Warrington based club.

Adam Fletcher, head coach at Lymm RFC, was delighted with his side’s acquisition of the hard-hitting centre.

He said: “Johnny got the bug back for playing and wanted to play for a local amateur club.

Look what happened when Leota crunched England's George Ford:

“He's made a great impression both on and off the pitch at Lymm and we feel very grateful to have someone of Johnny's quality and experience at the club.

“All the boys are excited to be on the pitch with him and the backs are already benefitting from being around him at training.”

Leota, who was born in New Zealand, started his career for the Manawatu Turbos before an eye-catching 2007 season at the Dunedin-based Highlanders paved his way for further success.

When Leota dumped Chris Ashton over advertising boards:

His international debut came in 2011 when he was selected against Tonga in the Pacific Nations Cup and he would then represent Samoa at the Rugby World Cup later that year.

In August 2011, Leota signed for Sale Sharks, where he scored 29 tries in 129 appearances, before leaving the club at the conclusion of the 2018-19 season.

However, Lymm fans will have to wait just a little longer to see the former international in action.

Fletcher said: “Unfortunately, he broke his hand recently so will be out of action for a few weeks, but we are delighted to have him and have welcomed him with open arms.”