George delighted as ‘integral’ Clarke signs a new deal
» GLOUCESTER head coach George Skivington has emphasised how ‘integral’ Freddie Clarke has become to the club in recent seasons following the announcement he has signed a new deal at Kingsholm.
Academy graduate Clarke, 29, took his game to the next level in 2021/22, stepping into the shoes of Ed Slater who missed almost the entire season before retiring following his MND diagnosis in the summer.
The versatile forward who can play second row or back row has established himself in the Gloucester Rugby pack, making 124 appearances for the club to date.
His form in the Gallagher Premiership and in Europe for the Cherry and Whites saw him named in the 2021/22 Gallagher Premiership team of the season last year and was called up by Eddie Jones to the England training squad in June.
Skivington, a former second row himself of course, said: “Freddie is an integral part of the squad here. The quality he brings on the field with his set piece and ball carrying is invaluable.
“He stepped into the second-row last season and has now really put a marker down on that shirt and has become a very important player for us.
“I’m pleased that he’ll be pulling on the Cherry and White shirt for years to come.”