'Major asset' George McGuigan signs new Red Bulls deal

George McGuigan will remain at Newcastle Red Bulls next season and possibly beyond, having signed a new one-year deal with an option to extend.

The prolific hooker, who has scored 52 tries in his 179 appearances across three different spells at Kingston Park, is delighted to have agreed terms with his ‘home’ club.

“It was an easy decision because this is such an exciting period for the club, and it is not somewhere I ever really wanted to leave,” said McGuigan, who has also played for Leicester Tigers, Gloucester and Ospreys.

“This is where I call home, and I’ve enjoyed being back up here this season. There has obviously been a lot of change, which is ongoing, and we’re building all the time.

“It’s a club that’s definitely going places, and long may that continue.”

Newcastle Red Bulls’ sporting general manager Neil McIlroy said: “George has taken on a leadership role with us this season as one of our most experienced players, and I’ve been really impressed with how he has conducted himself.

“As well as the impact he has made behind the scenes he continues to play to a very high standard, and I’m happy that we have retained such a major asset.”