Castaignede excited after extending Sarries deal

FRANCE star Thomas Castaignede has signed a one-year contract extension with Saracens.

The 31-year-old utility back will remain at the Vicarage Road club until the end of the 2006-2007 season and has set his sights on qualifying for next season’s Heineken Cup.

Saracens host Leicester on Friday in the first of two remaining fixtures left in which to claim a Heineken Cup spot through their position in the Guinness Premiership table.

“It was no secret that I wanted to stay and I’m pleased to say that I have signed a new contract with the club,” said Castaignede. “Saracens is my club and I’ve been here such a long time, through ups and downs.

“A big part of my signing was that when Eddie Jones arrived, he brought a new direction to the club and things look good for us. And with Alan Gaffney coming in, things are going to keep on improving with the quality of the coaches and players who are going to be here next season.”

New director of rugby Gaffney said: “Thomas is one of the truly great players in world rugby. He’s been playing well for us this season which has also earned him a recall to the French side.

“He’s an important part of the squad and we’re delighted he has extended his contract.”