Bristol Bears duo Bryan Byrne and Niyi Adeolokun sign contract extensions

Bristol Bears have confirmed that wing Niyi Adeolokun and hooker Bryan Byrne have agreed for contract extensions with the Gallagher Premiership club.

Adeolokun made his professional rugby debut with Connacht in 2014 and enjoyed immediate success as the club went on to win the Pro12 for the first time in the 2015/16 season. He made a switch to Ashton Gate in 2020 on a short-term deal but now has extended his stay. The 30-year-old has made nine Premiership appearances for the club until now.

“It’s been a fantastic first year with the club and I’m delighted to have been able to contribute to the Bears’ growth," he told the club's official website.

“Personally, my game is improving under Pat Lam and the coaching staff and I look forward to helping the team achieve our goals going forward.”

Meanwhile, Byrne has scored seven tries for the club after joining in 2020 and had played for Leinster, Ireland U18, U19 and U20 teams.

“Bristol a great place to be – it’s an awesome city and a club that is going places. We’ve got a good group of lads here and it’s clear to see how everybody is enjoying their rugby and the performances that the Bears are putting in," said the 27-year-old.

“The key for us now is to kick on and achieve our team goals. We’re under no illusions about the challenges to come but we are relishing every minute of it so far.”

Bristol currently hold the top place in the Gallagher Premiership table with 10 wins from 13 matches.