Samson says Andy Robinson was a factor in his move to Edinburgh

Ross Samson has agreed a two-year deal to join Edinburgh from Newcastle Falcons and says coach Andy Robinson was a key factor behind his move.

The 21-year-old Edinburgh-born scrum-half said he was looking forward to working with Robinson and aimed to improve as a player.

"All the guys I've spoken to have said that Andy has been incredible to work with," said Samson.

"Hopefully I will learn a huge amount as well."

Samson said he was looking forward to his future in the Scottish capital.

The fact so many young Scottish guys are being brought in is encouraging and I think the team has real potential Ross Samson

"It seems like an exciting place to be. I know guys like Ross Rennie really well," he said.

"The fact so many young Scottish guys are being brought in is encouraging and I think the team has real potential.

"There are plenty of us there, but there hasn't been a Stew Mel boy coming through for a few years, so I suppose it is a case of keeping the tradition going."

As a scrum-half, Samson acknowledges starting opportunities could be scarce because he will be in direct competition with Mike Blair, but he says he is looking forward to learning at the shoulder of the Scotland captain.

He said: "Mike was a massive part of me wanting to move to Edinburgh. I think if I shadow him for a few months then I will definitely learn a lot of stuff."

Samson's next big match will be for the Barbarians against Bedford on 7 April, 12 months after he helped the Ba Bas defeat Edinburgh at Raeburn Place, and says he is relishing the prospect.

"It's pretty exciting; I played for them last year against Edinburgh Accies and I must've done alright," he said.

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