NEWCASTLE Falcons have signed former Saracens hooker Alex Walker on a two-year deal.

Walker, an English-qualified former Australia Under-21 international, rose through the ranks at Eastwood in Sydney, the former club of Falcons legend Matt Burke.

The 25-year-old made six first-team appearances for Saracens last season, having begun his English club career at National One side Otley.

Falcons director of rugby Steve Bates said: "Alex comes highly recommended from our contacts in both Australia and England, and will add significant competition for places in the hooking position."

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