Edinburgh hand Chris Dean a contract extension

Chris Dean has played nine times this season

Edinburgh have extended Chris Dean's contract, with coach Alan Solomons tipping the Scotland youth centre for full international honours.

And Solomons says securing the 21-year-old on a deal until May 2018 emphasises the club's commitment to home talent.

"Chris epitomises the vision we have for the club," he said.

"He's a fine young man with good leadership qualities who, I feel, will make his mark both with the club and Scotland."

Dean, who has represented Scotland at every age level, joined Edinburgh from school and signed full professional termsin summer 2014.

He made his first start this season against Leinster and has featured in nine out of the club's fixtures so far.

"He is a talented, young Scottish player who has made terrific strides this season," said Solomons.

Dean grew up in East Lothian as a supporter of the club.

"It was always my dream to play with Edinburgh and it's great that I can stay for another two years," he said.

"There's a great atmosphere in the squad at the moment and we've got a really good bunch of guys who I think can really go somewhere.

"I want to keep pushing my career on and I really believe Edinburgh is the best stepping stone for that."