James Downey: Wasps sign Glasgow Warriors centre on loan

James Downey won promotion to the Premiership with Northampton Saints in 2008

Wasps have signed Irish centre James Downey on loan from Glasgow Warriors until the end of the season.

The 33-year-old former Munster and Northampton Saints back will provide cover at the Ricoh Arena for injured pair Chris Bell and Alapati Leiua.

"I can't wait, it's obviously exciting times here at Wasps and I'm looking forward to hopefully getting some game time," said Downey.

"I'm looking forward to playing in front of some big crowds."

Downey, who has won one cap for Ireland, won the European Challenge Cup and the Anglo-Welsh Cup during his four years with Saints. He moved to Glasgow in June 2014 after 47 appearances for Munster.

He joins a Wasps side currently fourth in the Premiership and set for a European Champions Cup quarter-final in Toulon in April.

"The players here are really positive and have been in great form," added Downey. "They've been very welcoming. Now I just need to work hard, learn the calls and hopefully I can fit in seamlessly. It's a good chance to have another go in the Premiership."

Meanwhile, Wasps have appointed former Tom Rees as an ambassador for their Academy. The 30-year-old ex-England flanker, who won 15 caps for his country before retiring because of injury in 2013, will take up the voluntary role this month.