England international Jack Clifford made perfect preparations for a first Guinness Six Nations Championships in two years by signing a new contract for Harlequins.
The 10-time capped back row has not featured for England since playing against Italy at Twickenham in the 2017 Championship but has been named in Eddie Jones’ initial squad to face Ireland.
The 25-year-old has signed a new three-year deal to join the likes of England scrum-half Danny Care and England Under-20 international Gabriel Ibitoye in extending their contracts at Quins.
Clifford, who made his England debut in the 2016 Six Nations victory against Scotland, says he is overjoyed to have put pen to paper on a new deal under former England coach Paul Gustard.
“I am delighted to have signed my new contract with Harlequins,” he said.
“Under Gussy and the excellent team of coaches, we have been building a winning environment, based on an uncompromising attitude in all that we do.
“It is a really exciting time to be here and I am so pleased to be a part of what I know will be a successful future at Harlequins.
“We all want to win trophies and we are going to have a lot of fun in our mission to get them.”
Care, who has 84 England caps since making his debut in 2008, was thrilled to confirm another two years at the Premiership club.
“I’m delighted and incredibly proud to have signed for two more years with the club that I love,” said the 32-year-old.
“I’ve had 13 amazing years here and I can’t wait to see what the next few will hold.
“I really believe that the club is in a great place at the moment and we’re all working as hard as we can to get hold of some silverware soon.”
Head coach Jones is set to announce his squad to face Ireland on Thursday as England target a victory over the reigning champions in Dublin for the first time since 2013.
