England international Anthony Watson commits to Bath Rugby
Anthony Watson is on his fifth season with Bath Rugby
©PA
Bath Rugby have confirmed that England international Anthony Watson has penned a new deal with the Gallagher Premiership club.
The 24-year-old's contract was due to end at the conclusion of the ongoing season and there was speculation that he might head to France with Top 14 clubs showing interest on him.
A move abroad would have effectively ended his international career but with a World Cup around the corner, Watson has decided to remain with the Recreation Ground and is among the four players to have signed a new contract along with second rows Charlie Ewels and Elliott Stooke and prop Nathan Catt.
Watson is currently on his fifth season with Bath Rugby and is nearing 100 appearances for the club. However, his participation this season has been restricted due to a repeat Achilles surgery and is expected to be return to action in the mid of Six Nations tournament next year.
"Anthony is a role model to our players with his work ethic and commitment to the club," said Bath director of rugby Todd Blackadder.
"He's currently out with an Achilles injury but that has not stopped him working tirelessly with our medical team to ensure he gets back to the field performing at the levels he expects of himself ASAP.
"To re-sign such an exciting group of players is testament to their belief in our direction of travel and the environment we have created here at Bath.
"Anthony Watson, Charlie Ewels, Nathan Catt and Elliott Stooke all have fundamental roles to play in our future and we are delighted to have ensured they are a part of it".
Earlier, Taulupe Faletau, Semesa Rokoduguni, Zach Mercer and Beno Obano also signed new deals with Bath.
