Fijian back row Netani Talei has impressed Harlequins director of rugby Conor O'Shea enough to land a deal at the Stoop for the rest of the season.

The 31-year-old international, who has has scored four tries in 28 appearances for his country, joined uop with the club last month after being released from Newport Gwent Dragons in October.

Talei made his first senior appearance off the bench in defeat at Wasps earlier this month, having started in the LV= Cup defeat at Gloucester a week earlier.

Quins are short of Nick Easter and Chris Robshaw until the Six Nations championship finishes and O'Shea admitted it was necessary to bolster resources in his forwards.

"With international call ups and the squad stretched, Netani, who is vastly experienced and explosive, has come in and made an instant impression with everyone," he said.

"He is a true professional in everything he does and we are delighted we have been able to extend his stay until the end of the season at the very least.”

And former Worcester Warrior Talei is out to make the most of his opportunity.

"This opportunity is a blessing for me and I'm so happy to be back playing after recovering from injury, especially for one of the top teams in both the UK and Europe.

"I'm looking forward to getting as much game time as possible for the rest of the season with Harlequins.”

Meanwhile, fly half Tim Swiel has returned to South Africa after completing his stint at the Stoop as cover for the injured Ben Botica.

The 21-year-old returns to the Sharks having played 10 games and scored 75 points - including one try - in all competitions.

Swiel started his side's 14-13 European Cup defeat at Leinster having come off the bench at the Stoop in a thrilling 24-18 triumph over the same opposition the previous week.

And, with current number 10 Nick Evans in the twilight of his career, the youngster did not rule out a return.

"The Leinster matches were probably the biggest games of my career," he said.

"In Super Rugby I’ve played against The Crusaders, but the Leinster matches were huge and to come off the bench and then start was a huge learning experience for me.

“It’s been short, but very sweet being here at Quins.

"I’ve really enjoyed it, the coaches showed a lot of interest in me and backed me to play; it’s all been very positive. Who knows what the future holds, possibly one day I’ll be back.”