Toby Flood has won 17 caps for England while at Newcastle

Leicester Tigers have confirmed the signing of England back Toby Flood from Newcastle Falcons.

The 22-year-old can play in a number of positions, but is expected to challenge Andy Goode for the number 10 shirt.

"Leicester is a world-class club and the ambition of the club is very exciting for me," said Flood.

Flood is the second player to move from Newcastle to Leicester in three days, the Tigers having signed England Saxons flanker Ben Woods on Monday.

Flood has established himself as a member of the England squad and is currently with the national team for the tour of New Zealand.

"I am sad to leave home and to leave Newcastle where I have very fond memories, but at this stage of my rugby career a new challenge is very important," he said.

We are sure he will be a valuable addition to an already competitive squad Leicester chairman Peter Tom

"This is an exciting challenge and it is one that I could not turn down. I am looking forward to getting stuck in at Leicester in pre-season training."

Woods, 26, who played for the Saxons against Ireland A in February 2008, described moving to Leicester as a "massive challenge", adding: "Leicester have been at the forefront of English rugby for as long as I can remember."

The Tigers are without a coach having parted company with Marcelo Loffreda following an indifferent season.

But Leicester chairman Peter Tom is sure the addition of Flood will help Leicester bring home some silverware to Welford Road next term.

606: DEBATE We really do need some competition for the 10 spot so that's where I'd put him Big

"We are sure he will be a valuable addition to an already competitive squad and we are looking forward to his arrival in preparation for the new season."

Flood made his England debut in 2006 but has not been selected to face New Zealand on Saturday.