Wales
Eli Walker signs Ospreys extension
ESPN Staff
February 15, 2014
When fit Walker has looked like a phenomenal prospect for Ospreys © PA Photos
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Eli Walker has signed a new two-year deal to keep in Wales with current club Ospreys.

Wing Walker will remain with the region until at least 2016 and, though injuries have denied him the chance to make his Wales debut so far, he remains a promising international prospect for Warren Gatland. His new deal highlights the confidence Ospreys have in him to live up to his potential, and the fact that one of Wales' brightest young stars is staying in the country is another boost to the WRU and the regions.

Walker admits he is determined to overcome the fitness woes which have plagued him recently, and that he is delighted he gets to do that at a club close to his heart.

"I wouldn't have liked to have had to go anywhere else so it's great that the coaches want me here," he said.

"The main aim for the next couple of years has to be to stay fit.

"I've had some bad luck this season and not managed as much game-time as anyone would have hoped for, but experiences like this can help to make me stronger.

"I want to keep playing for the Ospreys week-in, week-out and get consistent performances under my belt."

The deal comes as the war between the WRU and the four regions continues, and less than a month after Ospreys captain Alun-Wyn Jones committed his future to the club.

Ospreys rugby operations manager Andy Lloyd said: "We are hopeful that once we get him through his current frustrations we'll see his physical attributes come to the fore, while pushing his rugby onwards and upwards, enabling him to reach his undoubted potential.

"Supporters have seen what he can do with ball in hand and have really warmed to him as as a player and an individual, so they will share our excitement that we have been able to keep such another local talent at the region."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd

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