New Gloucester deal for Vainikolo

Lesley Vainikolo has ended speculation about his playing future by agreeing a new two-year contract with Guinness Premiership club Gloucester.

The former Bradford Bulls rugby league star had been linked with a possible return to the 13-a-side code when his existing deal expires in May.

But the 30-year-old England international wing has agreed a fresh contract at Kingsholm, and head coach Bryan Redpath said: "I am really pleased that we've agreed terms with Les. He's worked so hard to get back to fitness after his Achilles injury, and I think we are just seeing him get back to the form that we know he is capable of."

Redpath added: "He's been excellent for us in 2010.

"He's always been capable of finishing off moves, but he has also been sucking in defenders and creating space for others.

"It's not just about his contribution on the pitch, though.

"He's a great character around the club, hugely popular with the rest of the squad, and it will be good to have him around for a couple more years."