OFISA SIGNS TO NEWPORT NEWPORT have signed former All Black Ofisa 'Junior' Tonu'u (pictured) on a one-year contract to fill the vacancy left by Joost van der Westhuizen.

As Newport's second overseas signing, the scrum half will go straight into the squad for Saturday's tough Celtic, Welsh/Scottish League game at Neath.

"It's a new challenge for me, very different from what I'm used to," said Tonu'u. "There's a lot of exciting young players here and I've played with Shane Howarth before. Newport coach Ian McIntosh said:"We're very lucky we have obtained the services of such an experienced and top player."

Tonu'u has been training with Newport all week after leaving London Irish in controversial circumstances over claims he was unfit which he denies.

The 31-year-old former Auckland Blues player was part of the side that won the Super 12s title two years ago and has also played for Wellington Hurricanes.

Tonu'u won six caps for New Zealand between 1996-98 and has also played four internationals for Samoa.

In 138 first class games he has scored 46 tries, a strike record not that inferior to van der Westhuizen.

"He is no slouch, and he's a dynamic type, very powerful and explosive," added McIntosh.

"It is very fortunate he was around with the other deals falling through, but I hope it will work out just as well."

Newport delayed naming the side to face Neath because of injury problems.

Matt Mostyn (thigh), Andy Marinos (shoulder) and Jonathan Pritchard (dislocated finger) are all slight doubts and will be given fitness tests.