Howell commits to Quins

Harlequins RL centre David Howell has signed a two year extension to his contract which will keep him at the club until the end of 2013.

Howell, who has been a consistent performer for Quins over the last three seasons, will be one of the few antipodeans in a squad which is increasingly dominated by local talent.

But David, 27, who will have completed six years in the capital by the time his contract is up, is comfortable with the London lifestyle. “I am delighted to re-sign, my family and I are enjoying our time in London and are not ready to go back home yet,” he said.

“The club have been through a rough patch but there is a promising future after David (Hughes) committed to the next five years and with the calibre of youngsters coming through I can see the club moving forward. I want to be a part of it and will do my best to help get the club where it can be.”

David signed for Harlequins in December 2007 from Canberra Raiders and has been something of an unsung hero, with all the classic centre skills of taking and giving a pass and creating scoring opportunities for his wing as and well as his strong defensive qualities.

He enjoyed an outstanding season in 2009, becoming the club’s top try scorer and picking up the Player’s Player of the Year award at the end of the campaign. In 2010 he made 23 appearances and was a reassuring presence in an often young and inexperienced back division.

Rob Powell, Quins acting head coach commented: ‘David’s attacking quality and defensive nous are matched by his leadership within the group. I am sure he will have a massive impact again this year. It’s another big re-signing for the club and the squad is coming together nicely.”