Wilkinson set to sign new Newcastle deal

ENGLAND fly-half Jonny Wilkinson is close to signing a new two-year deal with Newcastle.

Wilkinson is embarking on his second comeback since kicking England to World Cup glory in November 2003 after injuries wrecked last season.

The 25-year-old scored 20 points in a match-winning display against Sale at the weekend and should start England’s RBS 6 Nations opener against Wales on February 5, slotting in at inside centre with Charlie Hodgson taking the number 10 shirt.

Team-mate Jamie Noon, a player on the fringes of England selection whose chances could profit from injuries to Mike Tindall and Will Greenwood, also looks set to agree a three-year extension.

Falcons boss Rob Andrew said: “we are delighted that Jonny and Jamie are keen to stay. They are settled in the north east and are buying in to what we are trying to achieve. They are an important part of what we are looking to build in the area.”

In recent weeks Newcastle have been busy signing as many players from their squad to new contracts as possible, and have enjoyed considerable success.

Teenager Mathew Tait stays at Kingston Park for a further year, while joint captain Ian Peel and Phil Dowson have agreed two-year extensions.

Former Celtic Warriors openside flanker Cory Harris is rewarded for his form since joining on a short term deal with a two-year contract.

Academy products Micky Ward and Hall Charlton have both also signed new two-year deals.