'Special future Wales international' lost to English Premiership club

A teenager tipped as a future Wales international has joined an English Premiership club after having to head across the bridge for his education.

Talented three-quarter Immanuel Feyi-Waboso will join Wasps from Cardiff Rugby at the end of this season, having signed a long-term contract with the Coventry-based outfit.

The 18-year-old had been hoping to study medicine at Cardiff University and continue his progress at the Arms Park, having made his senior regional debut last April.

But he failed to secure a place, despite achieving the three A* grades he required at Clifton College in Bristol, having been on the reserve list.

The Wales U18s outside centre, who also plays on the wing, ended up taking a place studying medicine at Aston University in Birmingham instead.

Cardiff made efforts to try and keep him on board, with Academy manager Gruff Rees hailing him as “something pretty special” and a potential future Welsh international.

But they were concerned he could be snapped up by an English club following his move across the bridge and now those fears have been confirmed.

From this summer, Feyi-Waboso will link up with the Wasps Senior Academy.

They are clearly delighted at having secured his services.

The club’s Head of Academy and Recruitment Kevin Harman said: “We are extremely pleased to have signed Immanuel on a long-term contract.

“He is an exceptional athlete, with lots of potential, which we are all hoping will turn into first team performances in the not-so-distant future.”

As for Feyi-Waboso, he commented: “I’m really glad to have signed a contract with Wasps.

“The coaching staff and players are world class and I hope they can elevate me to their level.

“I have loved being around their quality facilities and