Henry Pollock signs multi-year deal to remain at Northampton Saints

Henry Pollock, the 21-year-old England back row, has agreed a "multi-year" contract to stay at Northampton Saints, the Prem champions announced on Tuesday morning. The club confirmed the deal after a period of speculation over the forward’s future.

Pollock described the decision as personal and emotional, saying: "I’m massively happy to re-sign with Saints, my boyhood club." He added: "It’s an exciting place to be right now. We’re in a great spot as a team, but it feels like there’s still so much more growth in us."

The player’s move to extend his stay follows his signing with Matchroom Talent Agency; Pollock became the first rugby player represented by Barry and Eddie Hearn’s company. The Hearns have negotiated the new terms, which have been widely reported to be in excess of £400,000 per year.

Pollock has established himself rapidly at senior level, having played 13 times for England and won five British and Irish Lions caps. Those international appearances were cited by Northampton as evidence of the speed of his rise through the game.

Speaking about the squad and his place in it, Pollock said: "I’m still young, and we’ve got a young squad with a brilliant group of lads. Some of my best mates are here, and every day everyone pushes each other to improve and be the best players and team we can be." He added: "For where I am in my career, this is exactly where I want to be. I feel like we’re only just getting started."

On ambitions for club silverware, Pollock stated: "We won the Prem last season and we want to go again. Winning the Champions Cup is another huge ambition for us. We came so close a couple of years ago, and achieving that together would be incredibly special. I just want to enjoy every moment of this journey. I’m playing for my boyhood club, surrounded by great people, and that’s something I never take for granted. The connections within this group are what make it such a special place."

Northampton’s director of rugby, Phil Dowson, welcomed the commitment and highlighted character as well as ability, saying: "We’re delighted that Henry has committed his future to Saints. Over the last few years, everyone has seen the quality he brings on the pitch and the speed of his rise through the game – but just as importantly, he’s a young man of outstanding character." Dowson added: "Keeping someone with both his talent and mindset is hugely important for the club. What’s most exciting is that there’s still so much more to come from him. Henry is incredibly ambitious and constantly looking for ways to improve. He’s become an important figure not just for Saints, but for the wider game. He inspires young supporters, brings excitement to rugby, and understands that everything off the pitch is built on performing consistently on it. We’re excited to see what he can achieve over the coming years."

Pollock’s new contract ties a player who has recently broken through at international level to the club that won the Premiership last season, with the forward and Northampton both citing a desire to defend the title and to pursue the Champions Cup as immediate objectives.