Oxford Harlequins have snapped up Newbury wing Martin Nutt as player-coach for the 2009-10 season.

The 28-year-old, who was at Quins before joining the National 1 club, will assist head coach John Brodley as backs coach and look to stiffen up their defence.

Nutt, who began his career at Chipping Norton, has scored 39 tries in 119 games for recently-relegated Newbury.

He said: “I am looking for a new challenge in the game and to give something back to a club which treated me very well in the past.

“I am excited about next season already and working with the squad which is being created at Quins.”

Brodley said: “I have worked with Martin at senior county level.

“He is a proven try-scorer and matchwinner, so I am delighted he has agreed to play for us next season.

“I am equally delighted that he has accepted a coaching role because he has so much knowedge and experience to pass onto our younger players.

“Martin is a terrific example of how a top player can give something back to their local club when so many just fade into obscurity.”