David Bishop is hoping to kick-start his career after signing a temporary contract with Edinburgh.
The former Wales U21 international and brother of current Wales centre Andrew has signed a three-month deal with the Murrayfield outfit after a brief stint at the Dragons ended without success.
But the 27-year-old is in line for a return to Wales sooner than expected with Edinburgh kicking off their Heineken Cup campaign in Cardiff on Saturday.
Bishop initially spent three seasons at the Ospreys and lifted the Magners League title twice. But a split-kneecap almost ended his career.
He spent three years battling to recover and finally returned to top-flight rugby last year with a spell at Sale in the Aviva Premiership.
He then spent the early part of the season at Rodney Parade and played a part in the Dragons’ pre-season friendlies. But he was unable to secure a deal with the Men of Gwent and he has now been registered in Edinburgh’s Heineken Cup squad.
“The move has the potential to be a real win-win situation with me getting the chance to show what I can do and Edinburgh getting a bit more strength in depth in the backs”, said Bishop.
“I’m happy to play wherever I’m picked, and will be pushing hard in training to earn selection.
“I’ve played against Edinburgh a few times and I’m well aware of the talent that exists in the squad. I’m excited about the calibre of player I’ll be working alongside and I really can’t wait to get started.”
Edinburgh head coach Rob Moffat was delighted to sign Bishop, especially as it gives him more options in a backline shorn of players through injury and international call ups.
“David has been involved with a number of clubs at a high level, and we’re happy to have that know-how on board”, said Moffat.
“Before making him an offer, I spoke to a number of people who’ve worked with him, and everything they had to say was positive. He’s here to put his hand up, and I’m looking forward to him challenging the other guys in training.
“With a few guys away at the Commonwealth Games, and a few others like Nick De Luca, Andrew Easson and Simon Webster still coming back from injuries, David will give us an added bit of depth. I’m really pleased we’ve got him.”
