Muller extends Ulster contract

Ulster Rugby today announced that second row forward Johann Muller has signed a one-year contract extension.

The South African lock arrived in Belfast last summer from Super 15 side Natal Sharks on a two-year deal and the contract extension means that he will play his rugby for northern province until June 2013.

Muller has captained Ulster on numerous occasions this season while Rory Best was absent through injury or on international duty.

He has clocked up an impressive 2027 minutes of the pitch for Ulster during the 2010/11 season, starting all but four of Ulster’s competitive games, and has become a firm favourite with the fans at Ravenhill.

On signing the extension, Muller said today: “I’m delighted to extend my contract with Ulster Rugby by another year. I’ve really enjoyed my first season with Ulster, not only in terms of rugby but also personally. The people of Northern Ireland have been great to me and my family so staying an extra year wasn’t a decision we had to think about for long.

“It was a successful season for us and we are taking steps in the right direction, but the players and the coaching staff need to keep working hard for next season. Teams are judged on silverware and we have nothing to show for our season. We are determined to win something for the trophy cabinet at Ravenhill next season and to do that we must keep improving.

“I’ve been in the fantastic position of having a leadership role within the squad. I hope I can keep trying to help the younger players and they keep improving. The more games they play and the more experience they get will be of benefit to themselves and Ulster. If, in a couple of years I leave Ulster and have managed to help a few players develop, I will be delighted with that.’