Be warned - Cordero set to tear up Premiership defences

Santiago Cordero says he is looking forward to an “exciting” challenge ahead after today agreeing terms on a deal with the Exeter Chiefs until the end of the season.

The 24-year-old, who can play either wing or full-back, trained with his new team-mates at Sandy Park for the first time this morning and will come immediately into the reckoning for a place in Saturday’s match-day squad for the Anglo-Welsh Cup clash against visiting Saracens.

Capped 33 times by the Pumas, Cordero is set for his first taste of club rugby outside of his homeland, having joined the reigning Aviva Premiership champions from Super Rugby side Jaguares.

It’s a move, however, that excites the Buenos Aires-born flyer and he cannot wait to get stuck into life with the Chiefs.

“I’m very happy to be here and this is a great opportunity for me,” said Cordero. “I’m looking forward to the future and I hope to play some games and show what I can do.

“I know I have lots to learn about rugby here in England, especially as this is the first time I’ve played club rugby outside of Argentina, but I know I am coming to a great club. Last season they showed how good they were by becoming champions and, hopefully, they can do it again this season.

“I’ve watched a few of their games, I’ve talked to the trainers, and it’s a great set-up here, so I look forward to the next few months and see what it can bring.”

Cordero’s arrival in Devon could not have come at a better time as the Chiefs are currently a little light in terms of options in their back division. Injuries to the likes of Jack Nowell (ankle), James Short (finger), Henry Slade (shoulder), Max Bodilly (shoulder) and Michele Campagnaro (knee) have meant Rob Baxter has been forced to act, but the Chiefs Director of Rugby is delighted to have landed Cordero for the foreseeable future.

“I have only been here a few days, but I see already that Exeter is a beautiful place,” he added. “The club too is great and the people are treating me very well. Right now I have a lot of energy to play, so hopefully I can show what I can do and play well for the club.”