Gopperth has been impressive since arriving at Kingston Park in pre-season

Newcastle Falcons centre Tane Tu'ipulotu has hailed fly-half Jimmy Goppeth's organisational skills.

Junior All-Black Gopperth arrived at Kingston Park in the summer and the 26-year-old has since impressed with his midfield leadership abilities.

Tu'ipulotu told BBC Newcastle: "He's like a good general, he runs the show.

"He commands not just the backs but the forwards as well, he's quick on his feet and creates space for our all our midfield players."

Gopperth arrived from Auckland-based Super 14 side Blues in the summer, having established himself as one of the most promising fly-halves in the competition.

Meanwhile Tu'ipulotu made his Falcons debut against London Irish in November 2008, although he actually agreed to join the club in June.

He joined up with Steve Bates' side after his participation in the Air New Zealand Cup with Wellington and the Tongan has since made 24 appearances for the club.

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