London Irish rugby director Brian Smith believes Ulster and Ireland prop Tom Court will prove a key signing after confirming that the 33-year-old will join the club on a three-year deal next season.

The 32 times-capped loosehead will move to the Madejski Stadium from Ravenhill, where he has played since 2006 and made almost 150 appearances to date.

The Australia-born prop was part of Ireland's 2009 Six Nations Grand Slam-winning squad and featured during the 2011 World Cup.

He also had a brief involvement in last summer’s British and Irish Lions tour of Australia after being summoned as injury cover.

“Tom is a current Irish Test player and British and Irish Lion,” said former Ireland outhalf Smith. “He’s a terrific signing for the club as we look to add steel to the pack.”