Fitzgerald signs new two-year Leinster deal

Schmidt says talented back has his best years ahead of him

Luke Fitzgerald, seen here during Ireland training earlier this month, has agreed a new deal to stay at Leinster. Photograph: Billy Stickland/Inpho
Luke Fitzgerald, seen here during Ireland training earlier this month, has agreed a new deal to stay at Leinster. Photograph: Billy Stickland/Inpho

Ireland international Luke Fitzgerald has signed a new two-year contract with the Leinster.

Contrary to reports that he was to move to Munster, the 25-year-old will now remain with the province until the summer of 2015 at least.

Fitzgerald has had an unlucky run with injury over the last few years, the latest of which was picked up playing for Ireland in the Six Nations defeat to Italy in Rome.

He picked up a knee injury in the first half of that match after coming on as a replacement and has been ruled out until next season.

READ MORE

"I'm delighted to commit my future here,”admitted Fitzgerald. “It is hugely frustrating to miss the run-in to the campaign but I'm looking forward to beginning my rehab over the coming weeks and getting back in a blue shirt next season."

Leinster coach Joe Schmidt welcomed the new deal for the talented back, saying: "We are delighted that a player of Luke's ability has committed his future to the province. At just 25, his best years are ahead of him and hopefully he'll be back better than ever early next season."

Fitzgerald has played 108 times for Leinster and has scored 26 tries since making his debut as a 19-year-old. He has won 26 international caps and was selected for the 2009 Lions tour to South Africa.