London Scottish have signed Canadian World Cup star Adam Kleeberger from the British Columbia Bears until the end of the season

Kleeberger, 27, who plays as a back-row forward, won praise for his standout performances during the 2011 World Cup in New Zealand. An aggressive, tough tackling flanker, he was named man of the match in the Canadians' opening win over Tonga.

London Scottish Head Coach Simon Amor was pleased to welcome Kleeberger into the squad: “Adam will be a very important player for us over the remainder of the season. He is an international player who has performed to a high level on the biggest stage of them all, and he will add a greater physical edge to our play.

“He was an iconic player in New Zealand, and his rugby reputation speaks for itself. I am delighted to welcome him to London Scottish, and look forward to seeing what he can do.”

Kleeberger will be available for selection for the Moseley fixture on December 26th, and London Scottish supporters will get the chance to see him at the Athletic Ground on January 7th against Plymouth Albion, selection permitting.

He gained a great deal of attention throughout the World Cup, not only for the quality of his performances but also for the size of his impressive beard (pictured above). He took the opportunity to shave it off following the tournament as part of the 'Movember' charity initiative, but it gained him fans from all over the world.

(Before and after, above)

Kleeberger will be the third player from RWC 2011 to represent Scottish this season, following the signing of Argentine stars Agustin Gosio and Alfredo Lalanne earlier this year.