The 30-year-old had been a free agent since leaving Northampton Saints by mutual consent but has signed for former Scotland star Alan Tait on a two-and-a-half-year deal, with the Falcons beating off Bath, Bayonne and Scarlets for his signature.

Murray did feature for Scotland during their autumn internationals but was eager to sign for another side as quickly as possible to ensure he was lining up against France for their RBS 6 Nations opener.

And British & Irish Lion Murray insists it wasn’t just the rugby that led him to the north east with his new club also suiting  his family.

“I’m delighted with my move to Newcastle,” said Murray. “I can’t wait to get stuck in and I’m really looking forward to pulling on the Falcons jersey.

“The move up to Newcastle was the best option for me and my family.”

One of the reasons Murray’s time at Franklin’s Gardens came to an abrupt end was his refusal to play on Sundays due to his religious beliefs.

And with the Falcons’ next two games against Leeds and Wasps falling on a Sunday Murray isn’t likely to make his debut until Sale visit on January 7.

But Newcastle head coach Tait is thrilled to finally fill the void left following Carl Hayman’s departure to Toulon in the summer.

“We’re delighted to sign a proven high quality tight head prop,” he said.

“Our preferred time to play our games is a Friday night and while some games do get moved for television, we will have Euan available for more games than we would most current international players.”