Will Filo fill a gap with Blues comeback?

CARDIFF

Blues are bringing giant Samoan international Filo Paulo back to the Arms Park as they move to bolster their second row department.

The 37-times capped Paulo, (above), who featured in the World Cup out in Japan, spent two years with the Blues after joining in March 2013, making 54 appearances in all.

Since then, he has had spells with Benetton and London Irish, helping the Exiles gain promotion to the Gallagher Premiership last season.

Now he is heading back to the Welsh capital for a second stint with the Blues, on a short-term contract until the end of the season.

Coach John Mulvihill has turned to the New Zealand-born 32-year-old as he bids to add some bulk and power to the boilerhouse.

At 6ft 8ins and 19st 3lbs, Paulo certainly provides a physical presence, as well as some muchneeded ball-carrying clout.

Born in Wellington, of Samoan heritage, Paulo played provincial rugby for North Harbour and Super Rugby for the Blues in Auckland, also having a spell with Ulster early in his career.

A combative hard-hitter, who can also feature in the back row, he made his Test debut for Samoa in 2012 and took his tally of caps to 37 with three starts at the recent World Cup, appearing against Russia, Scotland and Ireland.

He will link up with the Blues squad later this week and is set to be available for the Challenge Cup clash against Pau on December 7.

Head coach Mulvihill sees Paulo as a timely addition, especially following injuries to the likes of Ellis Jenkins, Josh Navidi and most recently Rory Thornton.

“We’re really happy to welcome Filo into the squad,” he said.

“He was a really popular member within the squad during his first period here and he’ll be an important addition, especially with the season set to intensify over the next couple of months.

“He’s a big man who can add some bulk to our options in the second row and we’re looking forward to seeing his contributions both on and off the field.

“He’s very excited to return here. He really enjoyed his time here before moving to Italy and we’re hoping he can bring his recent experiences from the World Cup to become a useful player for us between now and the end of the season.”