Justin Burnell: London Welsh head coach agrees contract extension

London Welsh head coach Justin Burnell has signed a new deal with the club.

The 46-year-old joined the club in June and will now stay with the Exiles until at least the end of next season.

London Welsh currently lie third in the Championship, bidding for an immediate return to the Premiership.

Burnell told BBC Radio Oxford: "I'll be firmly on board for the foreseeable future. As soon as it was put on the table for me I was more than happy. It's good news for me and my family."

Before moving to London Welsh, Burnell had a long spell at Cardiff Blues, working as a joint head coach and forwards coach after initially managing the club's academy.

Burnell, who also led Wales Under-19s to a Grand Slam in 2006, added: "I had no second thoughts.

"Everything that we've worked on since the summer is now in place.

"There's still a long way to go and the big thing for us now is to maintain the top-four status.

"Everyone is doing their best to ensure that London Welsh will become a success."

Chairman Bleddyn Phillips told the club website: "I am absolutely delighted that Justin has agreed to extend his tenure with London Welsh. He has been a tremendous influence since coming on board last year."