Danaher extends contract

Declan Danaher has signed a new three-year deal with London Irish.

London Irish have secured the services of Declan Danaher for the next three-and-a-half years.

The talented back row has been an important player for the Exiles over recent seasons, and he has once again played a key role in the current campaign, making 11 appearances to date.

Two of those appearances came in Irish's strong European Challenge Cup run, which has seen them qualify from the group stage with their 100 percent record still intact.

Such form has convinced Danaher that the club is heading for silverware, and he was delighted to sign the new deal.

"I am very happy at London Irish and am pleased to have signed a new three year contract," said the 25-year-old.

"This club is going places, Brian Smith and Toby Booth are taking us in a new direction and we are beginning to play some good rugby. I'm hungry to win something with London Irish and would love the chance to play in the Heineken Cup again."

Exiles director of rugby Brian Smith was equally elated with Danaher's decision to stay, admitting that the player's ambitions match that of the club.

"Declan's decision to sign a new contract is another major boost for the club," said Smith.

"He personifies the type of player this club is about - loyal, hard-working and talented. Declan gives of his best in every game whether in defence or attack, consistently topping the player statistics.

"We are looking forward to working with him and seeing him achieve the honours that he deserves at the highest level of the game."