Friday 15 January 2016 11:18, UK
Bath centre Ollie Devoto, named in Eddie Jones’ England Elite Player Squad this week, will join Exeter Chiefs next season.
The 22-year-old has come through the ranks at The Rec after joining in 2012, and has been a regular performer for them.
Devoto won the 2013 Junior World Championship with England U20s and his development has been recognised by new national head coach Jones with a call-up to his first squad.
"It's a good move for me. Exeter are a very good club and they've shown over a number of years that they are very ambitious," said Devoto.
"I like the values they have created, especially in terms of working hard, and that kind of mirrors what I demand of myself.
"Having played against them a few times over the years, you know you're always going to be in for a tough game and that you'll be tested in every area.
"They are a side built around hard work, but who are also very skilful and who have a number of ways of causing you problems."
Devoto still has the rest of the season with Bath, though, and he was keen to offer his thanks to the club.
"I'm massively grateful to so many people at Bath," he added.
"They were the ones who were willing to give me my big chance and throw me in at the deep end. I've had some great times with the club and it will always be somewhere that lies closely to my heart."
Chiefs head coach Rob Baxter is looking forward to working with Devoto from next season, a player he feels will be a good fit for the club.
"Obviously we're delighted to have Ollie on board from next season," said Baxter.
"He's a young, English player who we have been watching and we've been impressed with the way he plays and the character he has shown.
"Looking at him, you can see he's a very skilful player and someone who can operate at a very high level.
"His abilities are there for everyone to see, yet we believe there are still areas of his game that we can build upon and develop over time."
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