Johnson to extend Tigers career

England’s World Cup-winning captain Martin Johnson has agreed to extend his playing career by another year, according to Leicester Tigers chairman Peter Tom.

Johnson retired from international rugby after the World Cup but has put aside any thoughts of hanging up his boots when his current Leicester contract expires at the end of this season.

Tom has agreed a new one-year contract with the 34-year-old, who is expected to sign the deal next week.

Tom told the Daily Express: “Since Martin came back from the World Cup he has been outstanding for us and his presence next season will be a huge boost. It’s tremendous for us that he has agreed to play on for another season.

“He was the best player in the world last year and England’s loss has been Leicester’s gain.”

Johnson, who reclaimed the Tigers’ captaincy after quitting England, added: “I want to play on for another year at least and go from there.”