Thu 21 Dec 2023 | 02:06

Leicester make host of contract renewals as veteran half-back signs up for 19th season

Leicester Tigers have now confirmed three contract renewals today, with Ben Youngs being the latest. Earlier on it was reported that promising second-row, George Martin, would be remaining with the squad under a new ‘multi-year agreement’, with Joe Hayes later confirming his commitment to the club on a 'long-term deal', himself.

Veteran scrum-half Ben Youngs has signed up on a provisional one-year deal for the Tigers, as he looks to cement his legacy in what will be his 19th season with the club. The 34-year-old comes from a long line of Leicester Tigers, with his Father and Brother having both left their marks at the midlands side.

At the time of his debut in 2007, Young was the youngest player to ever play in the Premiership and has gone on to make 300 appearances for the club since - alongside a record 127 caps for England.

PARIS, FRANCE - OCTOBER 27: Elliot Daly, Ben Youngs, George Ford and Johnny May of England pose for a photo inside the England dressing room following the Rugby World Cup France 2023 Bronze Final match between Argentina and England at Stade de France on October 27, 2023 in Paris, France. (Photo by Dan Mullan/Getty Images)

Leicester Tigers scrumhalf, Ben Youngs is keen to provide help to the younger lads coming through: “Coming home from the World Cup, you could sense there was a great energy in the club. I have credit Dan and his staff for that and it’s just something I want to continue to be a part of.

“It goes without saying, this club means the world to me and my family so I’m just happy to be able to contribute any way I can, whether it’s playing or helping to guide the young lads through.”

BATH, ENGLAND - APRIL 18: Tom Youngs (l) of Leicester supported by Ben Youngs (c) and Harry Wells (l) during the Gallagher Premiership Rugby match between Bath and Leicester Tigers at The Recreation Ground on April 18, 2021 in Bath, England. Sporting stadiums around the UK remain under strict restrictions due to the Coronavirus Pandemic as Government social distancing laws prohibit fans inside venues resulting in games being played behind closed doors. (Photo by Michael Steele/Getty Images)

General Manager, Richard Wilks said: “Ben’s achievements at this club speak for themselves.

“His father was a Tiger, his brother of course left a lasting legacy at Leicester Tigers so in the modern era to have a player with so much connection to the club; 18 seasons and counting, that is special.

“His enthusiasm and leadership around the group since returning from RWC has been exceptional and he’ll continue to have an important role to play in the squad moving forward.”

Head coach, Dan McKellar said: “From day one, Ben has been terrific to work with and it’s great that he’s agreed to extend his time at the club.”

“His leadership and commitment to the club is something that you never doubt, and he’s been a big part in us building momentum the last couple of months.”