Exeter Chiefs finally complete Watisoni Votu deal

Exeter Chiefs have finally completed the signing of Fijian winger Watisoni Votu, six months after agreeing to bring him to Sandy Park.

The 27-year-old after the club suffered delays in getting the correct work permit and visa.

He has been with Exeter since December after making his Fiji debut in June.

Votu will not be able to play until Exeter's LV=Cup match at Bath as he is not registered for the Heineken Cup.

"In some ways the delay will probably have done him some good because he's had a bit more time training with us," head coach Rob Baxter told BBC South West Sport.

"He's settled in a little bit more and got his base fitness where we wanted it to be in a nice relaxed environment where there's been no pressure of games."

Votu has played in Fiji's last seven games, but has yet to score a try for his country.

Baxter says the delay in Votu's deal has probably had a worse impact on the Fijian, rather than Exeter.

"We've had fit players so we've not been desperate for a winger to get out on the pitch," he added.

"But it has prevented him getting a bit more game time had we got him earlier in the season.

"It's a great opportunity for him to develop as a player and become a potential professional rugby player."