The former Leinster prop was part of an Exiles side that finished in 10th position in the Aviva Premiership table last season.

Irish have suffered from recent high-profile departures and this summer’s loss of England winger Marland Yarde is undoubtedly a blow.

In his place, have arrived Chris Noakes and James Short in the backline, whilst up front Luke Narraway and Tom Guest are also on board.

The 2008/9 Premiership runners-up are now targeting a return to play-off contention after three seasons spent looking over their shoulder.

“We’re aiming at the top six, which would be massive for us as Europe is in the eyes of everyone in the squad,” said Hagan.

“We want to get into that top tier and compete with the best teams.

“It’s been three years since we played in the Heineken Cup, which is a long time for a club to be in the bottom league.

“The Amlin Challenge Cup is still very competitive but we want to play in the highest tier.

“The owners, the new ambition, and the players we have, everyone wants to prove a point and this is the place to do it.

“We lacked a killer instinct last season and were unlucky in a lot of matches when we were in control. That comes down to game management and players getting used to each other.

“I think we will get on top of that this year and make strides towards the top six.”

The Exiles begin their season in Twickenham’s double-header against London rivals Harlequins on September 6 (4.30pm ko).

Hagan, who has one Ireland cap, is desperate to put on a show to kick-off their season in style.

“We’ve got a couple more pre-season matches to get through and are definitely working our way towards the double header,” he added.

“I’ve never played at Twickenham before as last year I was injured and was commentating in the stands instead.

“I was soaking in the atmosphere but obviously wanted to play. It’s an amazing occasion and to play in one of the world’s oldest stadiums is brilliant.

“We have a rivalry with Quins so it’s a bonus to face them. We bettered them at home and they did the same to us last year.

“It was a good match at The Stoop and close at one point. Harlequins are a tough and skilful side who play at a high tempo.

“They’re definitely going to be tough opponents, but hopefully we will surprise them as we’ve brought some good players in.”

Jamie Hagan was speaking on behalf of Heathrow Express, proud sponsors of the Aviva Premiership London Double Header . Heathrow Express is the fastest way to travel between central London and Heathrow Airport. For more information visit www.heathrowexpress.com or join the conversation on Twitter @hexrugby

l LONDON Irish RFC have confirmed that Sailosi Tagicakibau has left the club after nine years at Madejski Stadium.

The 31-year-old Samoan winger spent the latter part of last season on loan at the Stormers.

Tagicakibau joined Exiles in December 2005 and went on to make 158 appearances, scoring 58 tries.

London Irish director of rugby, Brian Smith said: “Losi has been a great competitor for London Irish over the last nine years.

“We would like to thank him for all of his efforts, and wish him and his family all the best for the future.

“We’re entering a new chapter and have assembled a squad of players that can take us forward. We want to achieve the long-term goals set out by our new owners.”