Van der Merwe joins up at Glasgow

Van der Merwe has recovered from a long-term ankle injury

Canada international DTH van der Merwe has joined Glasgow Warriors on a two-year contract.

The South African-born 23-year-old can play on the wing or at centre and has returned to action after 15 months out with complications from a broken ankle.

"He's played for Canada in the past few weeks against Ireland and Wales and has been outstanding in those games," said Glasgow coach Sean Lineen.

"He came over and trained very well and fitted in well with the players."

Van der Merwe, who was poised to sign for Saracens before his ankle injury, said: "It has been tough coming back.

"I think I'm finding myself being a better player as a result of the injury, because I really thought I wasn't going to play again for a while there. I am a better player for myself and my team-mates and I feel stronger than before."

Meanwhile, Scotland A and Scotland Sevens international Richie Vernon has agreed a two-year extension to his contract.

"Richie has incredible potential," added Lineen. "He has pace, strength, size and is very ambitious and the latter is what you need to get to the top of this game."