Barkley bags new Bath deal

England fly-half Olly Barkley has signed a new contract with Bath.

The 24-year-old is Bath's second highest points scorer and has plenty of time to break that record after extending his stay at Bath until the end of the 2007-08 season.

The England international, who can also operate as an inside centre, says that he took his time to decide to commit himself to the Recreation Ground side for the next few seasons.

"I have been taking my time over the decision to sign a new contract as I wanted to make sure that I would make the correct choice," Barkley told the club website.

"The next few seasons are going to be really important for myself both with Bath and with England in the lead up to the next World Cup.

"I am really looking forward to continuing to work with Brian Ashton. He is one of the main reasons that I decided to stay with Bath as I admire his outlook on how rugby should be played and I believe that he will take Bath places in the not so distant future."

Bath head coach Brian Ashton was delighted that Barkley agreed to extend his stay with the club.

"I am delighted to hear that Olly Barkley has decided to commit his immediate future to Bath Rugby," said Ashton.

"He is a very talented back who has already performed well at international level. He is also a world class goal kicker and should play a leading role in the development of Bath Rugby over the next couple of seasons."