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Rugby Union

Varndell commits future to Leicester Tigers

07/05/2008

Young England winger Tom Varndell has signed a new contract with Guinness Premiership side Leicester Tigers.

The 22-year-old - who is the leading try-scorer in England - is one of the Welford Road outfit's most prolific players, having crossed the whitewash 60 times in his 94 appearances for the club.

Varndell also has three full international caps to his name, scoring two tries, although he is better known for his contributions to the England Saxons and England Sevens teams since 2005.

"I'm very happy to be staying at the club," the pacy winger said.

"It's still regarded as one of the best clubs in the country, if not Europe. With the fan base and the following that we have, it's an amazing club to be a part of and I'm very happy to be extending my contract."

Varndell is one of several high-profile players to commit their futures to the Tigers, along with fellow England stars George Chuter and Martin Corry, Italy's Martin Castrogiovanni and Argentina's Marcos Ayerza.

And head coach Marcelo Loffreda believes the re-signing of Varndell is a key component to ensure future success for the club.

"We are really happy that Tom Varndell has signed," the former Argentina coach explained.

"He is a very accomplished player. He is a skilful player and he has been working very hard on his game. We welcome that and we think he is going to be a great player.

"He is potentially one of the best players in his position in the country. He has a good attitude to his game and we are delighted he is still with us. He is a great finisher, not potentially - he is one of the best right now."

He continued: "Re-signing our young English players is very important for us, for the club and for the England team.

"This is a club with very strong roots. Players here have a culture of hard work, respect, love for the club and a passion for the game.

"This year has been pretty complicated because of the World Cup and because of the many changes. If we can take advantage of the continuity in the team next season, then I think it will be a very good year for us."