Aviva Premiership
Gopperth deal boosts Falcons
ESPNscrum Staff
February 3, 2012
Newcastle's Jimmy Goppert kicks for goal against Toulon, Newcastle Falcons v Toulon, Amlin Challenge Cup, Kingston Park, Newcastle, England, December 8, 2011
Jimmy Gopperth has agreed a new three-year deal with Newcastle © Getty Images
Enlarge
Related Links
Players/Officials: Jimmy Gopperth
Tournaments/Tours: Aviva Premiership

Jimmy Gopperth has inked a new three-year deal with Aviva Premiership strugglers Newcastle, ending speculation about his playing future.

The 28-year-old Kiwi fly-half, a former Hurricanes and Blues representative during his time in Super Rugby, knocked back several offers in order to re-sign with the Falcons, who are attempting to overturn a nine-point deficit at the bottom of the table.

Newcastle will attempt the feat under a new coaching team - Gary Gold, John Wells and Mike Ford - and the retention of Gopperth, a two-time winner of the Premiership's Golden Boot, is a major boost.

"I have been humbled by the offers from other clubs, however I feel that I have unfinished business here," Gopperth said. "Furthermore I very much want to be part of what I believe is going to be an amazing journey here at Newcastle.

"I whole-heartedly believe that we have a great squad here. The team environment is second to none and I am excited to see what we as a team can produce going forward."

Gold expects further good news on the contract front, adding: "I know full-well that there were a host of other clubs after his signature.

"He is an internationally renowned player who has made his intensions clearly known and it is a massive step forward for the club. I think you are going to see a couple more talented Falcons players signing new deals in the next few weeks too."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.

Live Sports

Communication error please reload the page.

ABOUT COOKIES

To help make this website better, to improve and personalize your experience and for advertising purposes, are you happy to accept cookies and other technologies.

More Info Here Cookie Choices