Paul extends Gloucester stay
Henry Paul today signed a new three-year contract with Gloucester and vowed to see out his rugby career at Kingsholm.
The deal, unlike Paul's initial arrangement after he joined Gloucester from league giants Bradford Bulls in October 2001, does not include Rugby Football Union funding.
And 30-year-old Paul's length of contract has effectively shut the door on any return to rugby league.
It commits his future to the union game until the end of season 2006/07.
"I like the club, the game of rugby union, the players and the whole environment at Gloucester," he said.
"This new contract will mean I am seeing out my career at Gloucester Rugby Club, which is a big thing to say.
"There is a great environment at Kingsholm, as we all know each other so well. We all get on and it makes for an enjoyable time. At the moment, I'm really enjoying my rugby.
"There is nothing better than winning a game of rugby in front of an 11,000 sell-out crowd week in, week out. That is a big plus to a lot of players, and we all have respect for the Gloucester supporters," added Paul.
Paul is currently enjoying his best season with Gloucester, having produced a string of top-drawer displays. He currently tops the Heineken Cup points chart with 97, and will be a key man in next Sunday's European quarter-final against Wasps.
He made two England substitute appearances - against Italy and Scotland - during the recent RBS 6 Nations Championship, increasing his cap tally to three.
"Henry's signature is a massive move for Gloucester," said Gloucester rugby director Nigel Melville.
"His commitment for the next three years shows his feelings towards this club, and also the fact that he knows his future is here at Kingsholm."
Gloucester also announced today that their Australian fly-half Duncan McRae has agreed a new two-year deal.
"Duncan is a quality number 10, and since his arrival in October he has proved his talent. He's settled in so well and is something very special."
McRae added: "Being involved in a good side with quality players and an intelligent coaching team was key. Add this to the support that the club has, and as a player it's so attractive.
"I am just ecstatic to get it all done. It's a big boost, especially with what is set to be our biggest and toughest game of the season coming up on Sunday."
