Is Carter returning to New Zealand?

Carter vowed to carry on playing for another two years, but declined to comment on where his future lies.

The 35-year-old two-time World Cup winner's three-year contract at Racing 92 in France runs out at the end of the season, with the flyhalf hinting he may return home to New Zealand.

But asked on Twitter by a fan whether he would be moving to English side Bristol next season, Carter kept his cards fairly close to his chest.

"I haven't decided my plans yet but all I know is I'm keen to play for a couple more years," said the former Crusaders star, before adding: "Surely you have enough Kiwis playing in Bristol."

I haven’t decided my plans yet but all I know is I’m keen to play for a couple more years. Surely you have enough Kiwis playing in Bristol https://t.co/OHsKP597AE

— Dan Carter (@DanCarter) November 2, 2017

Relegated from the English Premiership last season, Bristol currently top the Championship standings after seven wins from seven games and are widely tipped to gain promotion.

They are coached by former Crusaders player and New Zealand international Pat Lam, whose son Jack is the club captain, although he chose to represent Samoa at international level despite being born in New Zealand.

Bristol also have lock Joe Latta and No.8 Steve Luatua, an All Black international, as well as Tonga international Siale Piutau, who was born in New Zealand and is the brother of All Black Charles Piutau, who will join Bristol next season.

But last month, Carter suggested his future lay back home.

"I'm kind of going through those thoughts at the moment, whether I stay, whether I look at other opportunities," he told New Zealand's Radio Sport.

"New Zealand is where the family is and family is a big part of my life."

Agence France-Presse