Glasgow have completed the signing of Canada star DTH van der Merwe on a two-year deal.

The 23-year-old, whose full name is Daniel Tailliferre Hauman van der Merwe, was born in South Africa before moving to his adopted country.

He recently returned to action after 15 months out with complications from a broken ankle, which ruined his chances of securing a professional contract with Saracens.

He made the shift from wing to outside centre during Canada's second Test against Wales in Toronto on Saturday.

"It is one of the biggest things that's ever happened to me other than playing for Canada," said Van der Merwe, speaking from Denver, Colorado, where Canada are preparing for their first game of the Barclays Churchill Cup against Georgia this weekend.

"It has been tough coming back. I think I'm finding myself being a better player as a result of the injury, because I really thought I wasn't going to play again for a while there. I am a better player for myself and my team-mates and I feel stronger than before."

Van der Merwe also feels playing rugby for the Warriors will be as rewarding as pulling on his national jersey.

"When I get handed that jersey for Canada I look at it and admire it and I don't see that changing with Glasgow either," he added.

Van der Merwe's signing is no surprise after Canada coach Kieran Crowley let slip news of the move last week.

Meanwhile, Scotland A and Sevens international Richie Vernon has signed a two-year extension to his current Glasgow deal.