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Italy scrum-half Stephen Varney has left Gloucester to sign for French club Vannes.

Varney, who was born in Wales but qualifies for the Azzurri through his mother, came through the ranks at Kingsholm and went on to become a regular in the first team.

However, the 23-year-old’s recent opportunities had been limited after the Cherry and Whites signed Wales scrum-half Tomos Williams midway through last season.

Varney, who has won 30 caps for his country, “While I’m sad to be leaving Gloucester, it’s a great opportunity personally and I’m really excited for the next chapter.

“I’d like to thank Skivs (head coach George Skivington) and the coaches for giving me my first shot at professional rugby. I’ll forever be grateful for the opportunity I was given here.

“Finally, I’d like to thank the Gloucester fans. They’re a special group and they deserve the good times that I hope are coming.”