Leicester Tigers lock in halfback pairing
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Leicester Tigers have continued their re-signings with England duo Ben Youngs and George Ford penning new deals with the side.
England’s most-capped scrum-half, with 99 Test appearances, Youngs has played 244 times for Leicester since making his debut in 2007 as a 17-year-old. In a club career spanning more than a decade, the 30-year-old has scored 36 tries among his 200 career points for Tigers. Youngs re-signed in January alongside fellow internationals George Ford, Ellis Genge and brother Tom, and has now committed his long-term future to Leicester Tigers with his new deal. A second generation Tigers player, Youngs’ father Nick made 145 appearances for Leicester between 1981-88.
Speaking about the renewed deal, Leicester Tigers Director of Rugby Geordan Murphy said: “It’s pleasing to see Ben commit to the club long-term. He is, and has been since very early on in his career, one of the world’s best in his position and to have Ben commit to our plan and vision here in Leicester is exciting for everyone in the Tigers Family.
“Ben loves Leicester Tigers and, like all of us at this club, wants to see it get back to where it belongs.
“He knows there is a tough journey ahead which will take a lot of hard work, on and off the pitch, and has expressed throughout this process that he is committed to whatever it takes.
“On top of what we’ve asked of him, Ben is equally as committed to playing a senior role in this club and mentoring the next generation of players in not only his position but across the senior, development and academy squads.”
George Ford who signed a renewed deal in January, has extended his contract for the long-term with Tigers. The flyhalf made his club debut in 2009 at just 16 years old, has made 90 appearances for Tigers during two stints at the Leicester club.