Joe Marler stays committed to Harlequins

Harlequins have confirmed that England international Joe Marler has signed a contract extension with the Aviva Premiership club.

Marler made his professional rugby debut with the Quins in 2009 and has made 152 appearances since then. He was also part of the 2011/12 Aviva Premiership title winning team and went on to captain the side in 2014.

The 27-year-old stated that the decision to remain with Harlequins was a straightforward one.

"Re-signing for my childhood club has made me very happy," said Marler.

"John Kingston has recruited strongly over the summer and he is starting to really mark his identity with this exciting group of players.

"I strongly believe we have a squad capable of going places and I'm really excited for the new season."

The 6ft prop has represented England 51 times since his debut in 2012 and was also part of the British and Irish Lions squad that toured New Zealand recently.

"Joe is now established as one of the best loosehead props in world rugby," said Harlequins rugby director John Kingston.

"At 27, excitingly, he is probably only now coming into the peak of his potential.

"He has displayed a real commitment to the Harlequins cause over many years and as an Academy protege, he is another member of the squad who has only ever known one club.

"This news offers a further massive boost to the squad as we prepare for the start of our 17/18 campaign."