Blues Re-Sign gary Powell

Gary Powell
By Andrew Collins
December 7 2005

Former Cardiff prop Gary Powell looks set to complete a move back to the Arms Park in time for next season. The 26 year old is keen to return to wales, and it's believed he'll sign a big money deal with his former club side.

Powell left Cardiff in 2001 to join Leeds Tykes, where he enjoyed 2 succesful seasons before moving to Gloucester last season.

Powell is widely regarded as a key player for Gloucster, and they've  admitted he's set to turn down their pay rise for a move to the Welsh capital. he is keen to play for Mike Ruddok, but has seen himself fall further down the pecking order with the arrival of Chris Horseman.

It's thought the contract would see Gary earning up to a massive £300,000 over a 3 year deal.

If the transfer does go ahead, the Blues will have a wealth at prop with Lions star Gethin Jenkins, who signed a 3 year deal last week, and Grand Slammer John Yapp, who still has a year and a half left at least with the Blues.

Adding Rhys Thomas to that front row, who has also signed a 2 year deal, and Cardiff can boast one of the best front row sets in Britsih rugby.

The only thing that will bother some fans is that the money should perhaops be being spent elsewhere, such as second row, winger or full back.

However, with Yapp and Jenkins yet to feature together this season, perhaps the move would see gary get more first team action than currently expected.

The transfer is yet to be confirmed by either party, but agent, Mike Burton has said his client is looking to move,

"It's no secret that Gary would like to return to Wales although nothing has been signed. He remains a committed professional with Gloucester until the end of the season."

The move is expected to be announced within the next few days. Its thought he's turned down moved to the Scarlets and Worcster aswell as an extension at Kingsholm.