Booth buoyed by competitive Exiles

Toby Booth will launch the "most competitive" London Irish squad of rugby union's professional era on the Guinness Premiership this season.

Irish, pipped for the title by Leicester last term, return to Twickenham - scene of that 10--9 Premiership final defeat - on Saturday where they tackle London double-header opponents Saracens.

"We are excited about the coming season. We want to perform consistently in the Premiership and fight for a place at the top end of the table. Being back in the Heineken Cup and doing justice to ourselves is also important," said Booth. "We have recruited a squad that will enable us to compete in both tournaments."

He added: "In my opinion, the squad is the most competitive the club has had in the professional era. If the players can stay healthy, then we will be there or thereabouts at the end of the season."

Former Gloucester fly-half Ryan Lamb was Irish's main pre-season signing, off-setting the departure of Shane Geraghty to Northampton, while current French national team defence coach Dave Ellis has agreed a one-year contract with the Exiles.

"We are committed to improving the quality of our programme in pursuit of success," added Booth.

"Dave has a proven track record at international level. We're delighted at his appointment and the added value it brings to our coaching resources."