• Scotland prop Euan Murray joins Newcastle Falcons
• Lions tighthead signs two-and-a-half year deal

Euan Murray has joined Newcastle Falcons on a two-and-a-half-year contract after being released by Northampton Saints.

The Scotland tighthead prop moves to Kingston Park after being released from his contract by previous club Northampton earlier this month.

The British and Irish Lion said he was delighted to be joining Newcastle, who beat the likes of Bath and Scarlets in the race for his signature.

"I can't wait to get stuck in and I'm really looking forward to pulling on the Falcons jersey. The move up to Newcastle was the best option for me and my family," the 30-year-old said.

The arrival of Murray is a major boost for Alan Tait's side, who have been struggling to fill the gap in their front row created by former All Black Carl Hayman, who joined Toulon in the summer.

Tait also said that Murray's refusal to play on Sunday owing to his religious beliefs – a reason for his departure from Northampton – was less of a factor for Newcastle, who play the majority of their home games on a Friday night.

"We're delighted to sign a proven high quality tight head prop," he said.

"Our preferred time to play our games is a Friday night and while some games do get moved for television, we will have Euan available for more games than we would most current international players."