Sione Vailanu pens new Glasgow deal with return from injury imminent

Glasgow Warriors No.8 Sione Vailanu has signed a new deal with the United Rugby Championship winners.

The 29-year-old has spent the last two seasons with the Warriors since joining from their namesakes from Worcester in 2022, making 28 appearances to date, scoring eight tries.

Vailanu picked up a knee injury against Edinburgh in December, shortly after returning from the World Cup with Tonga.

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The injury ruled the 127kg forward out of the second half of the season, meaning he missed Glasgow’s surge to the URC title.

Though not fully fit yet, Vailanu’s boss Franco Smith said that his No.8 will return in the “near future”.

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“We’re pleased to retain Sione’s services for another couple of seasons, as we continue to build towards what is set to be another physically demanding campaign,” Smith said.

“He is someone that has bought into our culture and our environment, and his performances on the field have reflected that when he has been selected.

“Our medical and strength and conditioning teams have been working closely with him as he continues his return to match fitness, and we look forward to seeing him on the field again in the near future.”

Vailanu added: “I’m loving my time in Glasgow. Ever since the first day I arrived here, everyone made me feel so welcome. The environment here really allows me to push myself and challenge myself to get even better, because you know that everyone at this club – from the boys on the field to the team behind the scenes – is striving to be the best.

“I’m very grateful to the coaches for the trust that they’ve placed in me so far and for the opportunities they’ve given me. It really motivates you to go out and perform at your best, and help this club reach the heights we’re all aiming for.

“I love this club and I want to get back on the pitch as soon as possible. The boys were outstanding in the back end of last season, and I want to get myself physically and mentally ready to get out and help to do my bit for the team.

“I love the Warrior Nation too, and I can’t wait to get out there again. It’s been frustrating not being able to be out there in front of them, but sometimes it is what it is – you’ve just got to get yourself right and then get back out there. The physios and medical team have been great, and I can’t wait to get out there once they give me the green light.”