Marcus Smith ends speculation over his future by signing a new deal

England fly-half Marcus Smith has ended speculation over his playing future by signing a new deal with Harlequins ahead of the new season.

The club confirmed that Smith has agreed a contract extension which will see him remain in Quins colours beyond the 2023/24 campaign.

Staying at Harlequins

The 24-year-old was linked with a move to Racing 92, to replace Bath-bound Finn Russell at the Top 14 club.

However, Smith will instead remain with the Londoners, adding to his 140 appearances and 1,287 points for the side since his debut during the 2017/18 season.

Commenting on his new contract, Smith said: “I love the club, it’s been my home since the age of 14, and I want to repay the faith shown in me and help Quins win trophies.

“We have unfinished business, we want to challenge for titles and create more memories for our supporters.

“The club has always been a very special place for me and my family. Working my way through the Academy and into the senior squad has been a great experience, and I have loved every minute of it. I can’t wait to pull on the Quarters next season and run out at The Stoop.”

Harlequins director of rugby Billy Millard added: “We’re delighted Marcus has extended his contract. He is a key member of our squad who displays outstanding commitment to his training and game development.

“We’re looking forward to the impact Marcus will have in Quins colours next season and beyond.”

Marcus Smith’s career

A product of Brighton College, Smith grew up in Singapore before moving to the UK at the age of 13.

The talented playmaker made his senior bow for Harlequins during the 2017/18 season. Debuting at just 18 years of age and 200 days, he became the youngest fly-half to start in the top flight since a 17-year-old George Ford.

He quickly became a regular for the Famous Quarters and played a starring role for the club during the 2020/21 title-winning Premiership season, finishing as the top point-scorer with 278 as Harlequins defeated Exeter Chiefs 40-38 in the final.

Having represented England at U17, U18 and U20s levels, he made his senior England Test debut in 2021 against the United States.

A week after his debut, he was called up to the British & Irish Lions squad and kicked all seven conversions in the tour match against the Stormers.

To date, he has represented England 21 times, scoring 152 points, and looks set to feature for the side during the 2023 Rugby World Cup in France.

READ MORE: Full 2023/24 Premiership fixtures released including a Derby Weekend