Rugby:The prospect of Rob Kearney leaving Leinster this summer has been put to bed after the Ireland fullback agreed a two-year deal with the IRFU. The new contract will keep him with the province until the end of the 2013 season.
After the likes of Jamie Heaslip, Brian O’Driscoll, Jonathan Sexton and Sean O’Brien agreed new deals in recent weeks, Leinster have finally been able to get Kearney’s signature on the dotted line.
With the 24-year-old becoming a free agent in the summer, there had been suggestions of a lucrative move abroad while the player himself admitted the protracted negotiations had been a frustrating experience.
“We’re delighted that Rob has agreed a new deal with Leinster and Ireland and we look forward to welcoming him back to the fold over the coming weeks,” said Leinster coach Joe Schmidt.
“Rob has played an important role in the province’s recent success and I know how proud he is to represent his home province. Today’s announcement is another timely boost for Irish rugby.”
Kearney took to Twitter to confirm the news, saying: “Delighted to extend for 2 more years! Love the team, my team-mates and the fans! Feel very lucky to be apart (sic) of such a brilliant club!”
The injured Kearney, who will play no part in the Six Nations but hopes to have recovered in time for the Heineken Cup quarter-finals, has won 27 caps since making his debut back in 2007.
“I am really happy to have agreed a new contract and it allows me to concentrate on returning to full fitness as soon as possible and put myself into contention for selection for Leinster and Ireland,” Kearney added in an IRFU statement.
“I have certainly missed playing over the last number of months but my injury is coming along and hopefully I will be back soon. There is nothing like representing both Leinster and Ireland and a big deciding factor was our supporters and the fact I think there is a lot more to come in terms of success for both Leinster and Ireland. I am glad that I can be here to remain part of that.”
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