Falcons Best for Wilkinson Following Contract Extension

Jonny Wilkinson has signed a new two-year deal with Newcastle Falcons, bringing to an end the mounting speculation over his commitment to a future at the club. Wilkinson, 28, had been in the final year of his existing contract with the Falcons and there were fears he would quit after fitness coach Steve Black, one of Wilkinson's closest confidants, left his post.

Wilkinson, currently in his 11th season at the club, needs just nine more points to reach the mark of 2,000 for his club.

John Fletcher, Newcastle's director of rugby, described the deal as "a massive endorsement of where we are going as a club," adding that "it's no secret that Jonny has had offers from elsewhere, but this is where he sees his rugby future with the huge amount of talent and ambition at the club.

"Jonny is an incredible sportsman, a fine character and just a tremendous ambassador for the club and for the region. He is the biggest name in rugby - still the best player in the world in my opinion. And the fact that he wants to stay at Newcastle sends out a clear message about where this club is going and how close it is to his heart. His importance to this club is enormous.

"Kevin Keegan returning to Newcastle United and Jonny Wilkinson staying at the Falcons - it doesn't get much bigger than that if you are a sports fan in this region!"