Mercer: ‘I can add value’
Former Bath Rugby star Zach Mercer says he ‘could not turn down’ the chance to return to the Gallagher Premiership next season and sign for Gloucester Rugby.
The star number eight will officially join the Cherry and Whites ahead of the 2023/24 season, Gloucester have officially confirmed, which puts him in line to compete for a place in the England squad ahead of the 2023 Rugby World Cup.
The Leeds-born backrower, right, is currently plying his trade in Montpellier, having signed for the Top 14 side in 2021 after five years with Bath.
With two England caps to his name - as well as 17 for England U20, including ten as captain - Mercer has made a lasting impression in France over the past 12-months.
He helped secure Montpellier’s maiden Top 14 title, contributing to three first half tries - including crossing the whitewash himself - in a man of the match performance hailed by rugby fans and media alike. Nominated for World Rugby Junior Player of the Year in 2017, the 25-year-old received his first call-up to the senior England team in the same year, going on to secure his debut test cap against Japan in the 2018 Autumn Internationals.
Mercer, pictured, said: “To be given the opportunity to come back and play in the Premiership with Gloucester is one that I couldn’t turn down. The loyal fans and atmosphere at Kingsholm is something I can’t wait to be part of.
“Alex Brown, Skivs and the whole coaching group are building a strong team and a great environment on the field, and I believe I can add a lot of value. I can’t wait to be wearing the cherry and white jersey in front of the shed and being part of Gloucester’s future.
“I have another season here with Montpellier and I’ll be giving all my focus to the club in trying to secure back-to-back titles and European cup success.”
Gloucester head coach George Skivington added: “We’re building a solid group at the club, with very little movement in or out, so to have secured Zach for next season is a testament to the player he is both on and off the field.
“His performances for Bath and Montpellier are evidence enough of his capabilities. He has a topclass work rate, outstanding ball carrying skills and is solid in defence. He will undoubtably bring a further dimension to add to our current backrow. “We’ve got a big season coming up, which will remain our sole focus; it’s great to have such a talent coming in to compliment the set up next year.”