Vickers pens new deal

Newcastle Falcons front row forward Rob Vickers has extended his contract at Kingston Park, ahead of Sunday's Premiership showdown with Leicester Tigers at Kingston Park.

Vickers, 32, now into his eighth campaign on Tyneside, is set to make his 21st start of the season this weekend when he takes to the field against the reigning champions.

Making the successful transition from hooker to loosehead prop of late, Vickers has been the heartbeat of the Falcons pack since making his debut during the 2006-07 season.

The Barnsley-born stalwart graduated from the club's academy whilst a student at Durham University and took the professional scene by storm from the outset.

Scooping the Falcons Player of the Season award in 2010, Vickers was rewarded with a place in the England Saxons squad that lifted the 2010 Churchill Cup.

After two further seasons in England's top-flight, Vickers was a regular fixture in the Falcons front row during the club's promotion winning campaign.

"I've played my entire professional career here and I was delighted when Dean [Richards] expressed an interest in offering me a new contract," said Vickers.

"The last 12 months have been really interesting for me as I've had to adapt to a new position and I'm continuing that transition now and I'm looking forward to continuing that process for the future.

"Having someone like Micky Ward as scrum coach has been a massive help for me, and John Wells' expertise at the line-out has been invaluable ? it's great to be challenging myself in a different way," he added.

Newcastle Director of Rugby Dean Richards said: "Rob is an experienced pro, who has been consistent in his performances week in, week out.

"I'm pleased that he has pledged his future to the club and I'm sure he will want to continue playing at the highest level for as long as he can."