GRAY THE FORCE BE WITH YOU
RUGBY 1872 CUP COUNTDOWN Glasgow joy as Jonny signs new two-year contract
GLASGOW fans were handed the perfect festive present last night when Jonny Gray clinched a new deal.
The Scotland star snubbed approaches from big-spending teams in England and France to pledge two more years to his hometown Warriors.
Gray’s decision to remain at Scotstoun is a massive boost in the build-up to the 1872 Cup opener against Edinburgh at Murrayfield on Saturday.
The Glasgow lock said: “This club is very special to me. It’s where I’m from, my family and my friends are here and it’s a city and a club that I love and I care about a lot.
“I’m very happy to be here and I’m proud to represent this city. With the new coaches coming in it has been a very exciting time. Glasgow are ambitious and I’m delighted to be a part of it.
“When you run out at Scotstoun you represent more than yourself. You represent your club and your city. The fans follow us all over and we all want to make them proud.”
Warriors boss Dave Rennie is delighted to see Gray agree new terms at the club.
The New Zealander said: “We are thrilled. Jonny has achieved an enormous amount for a guy of 23. He has 38 Scotland caps and is playing his 80th game for Glasgow this weekend.
“He’s part of the leadership group here, he’s captained the side before and is a massive contributor about the place week in, week out.
“It’s massive for us. He’s a phenomenal player with a massive work ethic and the boys love him, so we’re rapt that he is going to be here for two more years at least.”
Meanwhile, Lee Jones will never tire of striving to beat the team that booted him out. And the fact the club that snapped him up are their deadliest rivals always adds spice.
Scotland speed merchant Jones is champing at the bit to swing back into derby action with Gray on Saturday.
He said: “This fixture is a huge event for every player involved. We always relish the opportunity to test ourselves against guys we know, and get one over on them.
“For me it is nice to get the chance to beat the side that let me go a few years back. First and foremost it’s the Pro14 league points that matter. But to claim the cup is also a significant achievement.
“Our focus is certainly back on keeping our winning streak going in the league following the disappointment in Europe.”
Jones is fired up by the prospect of facing ex-Warriors hero Mark Bennett.
The centre is set to make his Gunners debut after recovering from serious knee damage and Jones said: “I’d definitely be glad to see him out there.
“Mark’s a good friend and has had a horrible injury. I am sure the banter would be good value!
“The Scotland squad situation also comes into the reckoning in these matches. Glasgow had lots of guys in the side for the autumn Test series.
“But the Edinburgh boys will be determined to state their case in the build up to the Six Nations.”