Russell unswayed on Newcastle Falcons move despite drop

Newcastle Falcons head coach Peter Russell says relegation from the Premiership had no impact on his decision to join the club.

Russell joined the club to work alongside director of rugby Dean Richards regardless of Championship rugby in 2012-13.

"I put that behind me, Dean talked to me about it and it didn't worry me," Russell told BBC Look North.

"The hard work needed in a long season was what I drive towards."

Along with Richards, Russell and Jon Wells - who was with the Falcons under Gary Gold last term - the club has added depth to the playing squad.

The arrivals of Rory Lawson and Waisea Luveniyali, added to the retention of fly-half Jimmy Gopperth and Joe Wilson, have outlined the intent at Kingston Park next term.

"The signings have made a big statement with that, the way the management group has been put together is a statement," Russell added

"The ticket sales have gone very well and that pays tribute to the work behind the scenes.

"Everyone is on the same page with regards to getting back up."