Bortolami: Staying put

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Marco Bortolami has signed a two-year extension to his existing contract with Guinness Premiership club Gloucester.

The Italy captain agreed to commit his long-term future to the Kingsholm club after being impressed by the progress they have made in recent seasons.

"What can I say - Gloucester is my new home, my new life and my passion - for me to be able to stay for another two years is fantastic," the 27-year-old said.

"We made great progress last season and now it is up to us to build on it and create something very special in Gloucester's history.

Ambitious

"I believe in what we are trying to achieve and in Dean Ryan's philosophy for the team. We are young, we are ambitious and we want to be successful."

Bortolami's signature follows hot on the heels of a number of key contract extensions already made by Ryan as he creates stability in his playing squad. Alex Brown, Andy Hazell, James Simpson-Daniel and Will James have all re-signed since the beginning of the season.

"When Marco arrived at the club from Narbonne we believed he had the qualities to become a world class second row - not only as a player but also as an individual - and it delights me we have such a player within our squad," said head coach Dean Ryan.

"The re-signings show we are taking great care of this squad over the long-term. We are trying to build something that will create a legacy at Gloucester Rugby and Marco is central to that - I am absolutely delighted we have extended his contract. It is crucial for the club and its progress."