Smallbone makes big decision

London Irish loosehead prop Tom Smallbone has re-signed with the Premiership club for a further three years.

Smallbone has been involved in the London Irish Amateur club since the age of four and joined the Exiles Elite Player Development Group aged 14.

Unfortunately, he sustained a shoulder injury during 2012/13 pre-season which has ruled him out of the current campaign.

He has been involved in the England Under-18 set up and was part of the successful touring group that returned undefeated from Australia in August 2011. He attended Harrow School and made his A League debut against Gloucester away last season.

London Irish Director of Rugby, Brian Smith, said: “Tom Smallbone is a terrific young prospect and we’re expecting him to develop into a Premiership player over the next few seasons.

“Tom’s story is a fantastic one; he joined London Irish as a junior and may well play his entire professional career at the same club. It is a great example to all young players in our region.”

Smallbone said: “I am delighted to sign a three-year extension. This year has been extremely frustrating but I am looking forward to returning back stronger over the coming months.”