You are in > manchester.com  > News > Ospreys re-sign Welsh trio

Rugby Union

Ospreys re-sign Welsh trio

21/07/2007

Welsh internationals Ryan Jones, Alun Wyn Jones and Ian Evans have signed four-year deals with Neath-Swansea Ospreys.

Ospreys director of rugby Kevin Hopkins was delighted the three forwards had re-signed with the club and committed themselves to the region for the foreseeable future.

Ryan Jones was recently ruled out of the World Cup and said he would focus on getting fit for the start of the Ospreys' season.

Jones will be a big loss to the national side but Hopkins is thrilled to have retained the back row forward and club captain.

He said: "Building a successful squad is about securing your key players on long term contracts whilst bringing in quality players to strengthen where required.

"Ryan gives us a pivotal influence at the back of the scrum and the link between him and the backs will be vital to our ongoing success."

Lock forwards Alun Wyn Jones and Ian Evans came through the Ospreys youth system and thrived during their fist full season in the Magners League last year.

Their progress even forced Welsh international Brent Cockbain out of the fist choice line-up and Hopkins says the two young players are vital to the future of the club.

He said: "Ian and Alun Wyn are two of the most promising second rows Wales has seen over the past few decades.

"I am sure these two will be in the Welsh engine room for many years to come and it is great news for the Ospreys and Wales that they have committed themselves for the foreseeable future."

© Adfero Ltd