Loyal Ojo signs up for Irish fightback
LONDON Irish’s record try-scorer Topsy Ojo has signed a contract extension with the club, and the experienced campaigner is determined to see his side make an immediate return to the Premiership.
Star names such as Joe Cokanasiga, Johnny Williams and Ben Franks have departed, but Ojo remains committed to the Exiles following the capture of Samoan hooker Motu Matu’u from Champions Cup qualifiers Gloucester as director of rugby Declan Kidney assembles his squad ahead of the 2018/19 season.
Ojo, 32, will be on course to once again break the club’s all-time appearance record, an accolade he initially held in October 2017, until the recently retired David Paice surpassed it back in February. Embarking on his 15th season with Irish, the veteran said he is excited to add to his 283 appearances. “I’m happy to have resigned with the club and I’m looking forward to getting an excellent pre-season under my belt,” said Ojo, left. “Having to watch a large portion of last season from the side line due to injury and not being able to help my teammates, was incredibly frustrating particularly as I’d started the season so well. “I got myself back to fitness towards the end of the season and I’m feeling in good shape and 100 per cent ready to tackle the Championship, which will no doubt be extremely competitive this season.
“London Irish is a very special club and I still love being out on the pitch, so to be pulling on the green jersey again next season is fantastic.
“I’m looking forward to working with both Declan and Les, who in their short time at the club have already made a huge impression.”
Declan Kidney, Exiles director of rugby said: “Topsy is a top-class professional, who has looked after himself throughout his career and his experience will be crucial for us next season.”
Meanwhile, former Scotland Under-20 scrum-half Scott Steele has agreed new terms at the Madejski Stadium.
The former Leicester player joined in 2014 and has played 95 times for the club.
“I’m delighted to have resigned with London Irish, a club that gave me my first real opportunity to play top-flight rugby,” said the Dumfries-born half-back.