Johnny McPhillips extends Leicester Tigers stay
Leicester Tigers have announced that they have agreed a new contract with Johnny McPhillips to keep the versatile back at the Premiership club.
McPhillips, who joined Tigers in the summer of 2019, has made five senior appearances in his debut season as well as playing for Development XV in the Premiership Rugby Shield campaign and on loan with Doncaster Knights and Nottingham in the Championship.
A fly-half capable of playing across the back-line, McPhillips spent two seasons at Ulster before moving to Leicester, as well as featuring with the Ireland U20s squad that reached the World Junior Championships Final in 2016.
Tigers head coach Geordan Murphy said McPhillips had earned the new deal in an impressive debut season in Leicester.
“Johnny hit the ground running last summer and has been a great addition to our environment, on and off the pitch,” said Murphy.
“He has had limited opportunities in the senior side, but each time he has been called upon he has been impressive.
“His appearances in the Shield and on loan in the Championship have helped him to develop his game alongside his eagerness to progress and willingness to learn and improve.”
McPhillips said he felt his debut campaign was a rewarding one at Tigers.
“It might not have gone the way I might have planned, but it was really rewarding getting those opportunities before the break,” said the 23-year-old.
“It’s spurred me on to put down a marker when we get back and develop my game further under Geordie, Steve Borthwick and the coaching staff.
“There is talent coming in and already there in my position, which provides a competitive pool and environment to better myself as a player and is better for the club.”
🗣️ "“It’s been a privilege to work with genuine Harlequins legends over the years and the squad from that final will always hold a special place in my heart.” #GallagherPrem
🏉 Harlequins and Mark Mapletoft to part ways. 👉 https://t.co/50QTQSykVT pic.twitter.com/kHJqmHKtU9
— Planet Rugby (@PlanetRugby) May 5, 2020
The young back added that he felt it was an “exciting time” to be at Leicester.
“It’s a really exciting time to be here at Tigers,” said McPhillips.
“The foundations are getting put in place this season and, with the young guys coming through to blend with the older lads, it’s an exciting time and the club is heading in the right direction.
“Those additions in the playing squad and with Steve coming in, it’s exciting to see what we are capable of with the quality at the club.”
McPhillips is the 13th member of the Tigers squad to commit to new deals, including internationals George Ford, Ellis Genge, and Ben and Tom Youngs.
Meanwhile, Leicester hooker Jimmy Stevens announced his retirement at the age of 29 after failing to return from a concussion injury.
Stevens, who was in his second spell with Tigers, suffered a head injury in the 2018-19 season and has been advised to quit playing by medical experts.
The former London Irish and Nottingham player, who plans to move into property development and construction with members of his family, told Leicester’s website: “I’m gutted to be retiring, but I have to take the recommended advice from the health professionals.
“I’ll miss enjoying a good win with my mates and socialising with them after.”
Murphy added: “You never want to see a player have the decision to retire made for them and I speak for everybody at Leicester Tigers when I say it’s disappointing to see Jimmy call time on his career.
“Jimmy is Tigers through and through and when he returned to the club two years ago, we were excited to have not only the player but also the person back in Leicester.
“We wish him all the best in his next chapter and will continue to support Jimmy however he needs, as well as hopefully seeing him back in the Welford Road stands next season and beyond.”