Full-time deal for McGuigan

Byron McGuigan has earned himself a full-time stay at Exeter Chiefs by winning a one-year contract extension.

The 25-year-old three-quarter moved to Sandy Park in November as injury cover for Chrysander Botha, but has impressed enough to claim a new contract.

The Namibia-born former Glasgow star admitted his delight at securing new terms with the Aviva Premiership club.

"I'm very happy to be staying with the Chiefs, I really enjoyed last season; I love being part of the club and I always said I wanted to stay here in Exeter," said McGuigan.

"From day one it's been an awesome experience for me - the players, the coaches, people around the club and the fans' - they've all been brilliant and made me feel very welcome.

"Already working with the coaches here I know my game has improved a lot and it's been great to be part of a squad that have done so well. Last season we got to a final, a semi-final in Europe and we just missed out on the play-offs, so I know this is a club moving in the right direction.

"Looking ahead, I know the make-up of the squad next year looks very strong, so hopefully we can work hard again and maybe go that one step further."

McGuigan helped Exeter to a fifth-place finish, the Chiefs narrowly missing out on the play-offs but securing Champions Cup rugby for next term.

"Knowing I'm here for another year at least, I know I can come into pre-season, get my head down and focus on trying to get into the first team again," he explained.

"Because I've been here for a while now, I don't feel like a new-boy any more, I know the guys, they know me, so it's all good. I just want to do my best in training and in games and help the Chiefs as best I can."