Flanker commits to Cherries

Coach thrilled with player's dedication

By Hayley Paterson   Last updated: 3rd September 2007

andy hazell

Hazell: Three-year deal

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Gloucester's dynamic flanker Andy Hazell has signed a three-year deal, making him the club's longest-serving player.

With 167 appearances under his belt, the 29-year-old enters his 10th season at the club after putting pen to paper keeping him at Kingsholm until 2011.

"I have been very proud and privileged to have had the opportunity to represent my home-town club for so long and I am thrilled to have this chance to be involved in one of the most exciting times in Gloucester history," Hazell told the club's website.

"As a youngster growing up in the city, all I wanted to do was wear a Gloucester shirt, so to know I can still do that is fantastic for me and my family."

Signings

Coach Dean Ryan has already captured a host of top signings, including ex-Bradford Bulls star Lesley Vainikolo, and is delighted to secure the services of England international Hazell.

"I think we are very fortunate to have a guy like Andy at the club. He is a fantastically dedicated, determined servant of Gloucester," Ryan added.

"A number of times last season I said we were not the same side when the likes of Andy Hazell were not involved and I think that just underlines his value to us."

Gloucester's Guinness Premiership 2007/08 campaign kicks off on September 16, away at Leeds Carnegie.