Richie Vernon signs new one-year deal with Glasgow Warriors

RICHIE VERNON SIGNS NEW ONE-YEAR DEAL WITH GLASGOW WARRIORS Richie Vernon has signed a new one-year contract with Glasgow Warriors.

The 28-year-old returned to Glasgow in 2013 after a two-year stint with Sale Sharks, switching from flanker to centre six months later.

The versatile 24-cap Scotland star was part of head coach Vern Cotter's World Cup squad, and has now extended his second Glasgow stay until May 2017.

"We've had a bit of success and we're a team moving in the right direction and trying to get better, so it'll be great to be a part of that for another year," said Vernon.

"We've all got the same mindset to improve and make Glasgow Warriors one of the best clubs in Europe.

"One of my goals is to get back involved in the Scotland set-up and I believe I have the best chance of doing that at Glasgow."

Vernon is closing in on full fitness after a frustrating shoulder injury, leaving Glasgow head coach Gregor Townsend excited for his return.

The former Sale man starred as Glasgow swept to the Pro12 title last term, and Townsend believes he can reach those heights again next season.

"We're delighted Richie has signed with us for another 12 months and also that he's nearing a return to full fitness," said Townsend, with champions Glasgow taking on Connacht in Saturday's Pro12 play-off semi-final.

"He played a lot of games for us on our way to winning the Pro12 last season and we're looking forward to him being available to play again and competing for a place in the team."