Cuthbert signs three-year extension

Staying: Alex Cuthbert

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• Cardiff Blues
• Wales

Also see

• Brown forced to retire
• Warburton pleased by Cuthbert decision

Cardiff Blues and Wales wing Alex Cuthbert has signed a new three-year contract with the Welsh region, spurning offers from France.

Cuthbert was heavily linked with RC Toulon and Racing Métro last season but has decided to remain in Wales, with his new contract keeping him with the region until 2016.

With five tries in 13 appearances so far for Wales, the 22-year old has enjoyed a positive start to his career after winning the Grand Slam last season, scoring the only try in the title decider against France.

Cuthbert's decision to stay in Wales comes after Jamie Roberts and Dan Lydiate announced that they would both be leaving their respective regions for foreign clubs earlier this season.

"I had a lot of decisions to make, but this is the place I want to be to take my rugby career forward," said Cuthbert.

"I'm glad it's all sorted now. I'm happy in Cardiff and with the Blues. I get on really well with Phil Davies and the coaching staff and enjoy playing with the boys.

"It's great playing at the Arms Park. There's a top atmosphere with the crowd on top of you and it always lifts you to play in front of a packed house.

"I'm just looking forward to the rest of the season, starting with our derby matches over Christmas at home to the Scarlets and the Dragons.

"I've certainly seen the progress on the pitch. Although we may not be getting the results right now, we are just losing by narrow margins and you can tell it's coming.

"Hopefully we will get some quality players in next season and hopefully those close losses will turn into wins for us."