Anthony Watson: England back signs Bath deal until 2017
Last updated on .From the section Rugby Union
Bath have awarded a new contract to Anthony Watson, tying him to the Premiership club until 2017.
The 20-year-old, who can play on the wing or at full-back, is in his second term at the Rec and scored five tries in 29 appearances last season.
He was given his senior England debut during this summer's tour of New Zealand and scored a try in their win over the Crusaders.
"Anthony is an incredible talent," said Bath head coach Mike Ford.
"I think what is most exciting for us as coaches is that he's still young and still has so much potential to get better."
| Profile: Anthony Watson | |
|---|---|
| Born: 26 Feb 1994, Ashford | Premiership games: 30 |
| Position: Full-back/wing | Premiership tries: 5 |
| Clubs: London Irish, Bath | International: One senior England game; England Saxons and U20s |
Watson started his career in the London Irish academy before progressing to the Exiles first team during the 2012-13 season.
He moved rapidly through the England youth set up, playing for the Under-20s at the age of 17, and was part of the team that lifted the IRB Junior World Championship last year.
After an impressive debut season with Bath, Watson was selected for Stuart Lancaster's squad for the 2014 Six Nations and went on to make the cut for the summer tour.
He opened his try-scoring account for the current Premiership campaign by crossing within a minute of kick-off in Saturday's win over Sale.
"Last season was great for me in many ways - from getting regular first team rugby in a winning team, to being called up to tour with England this summer," said Watson.
"I know that a large part of the reason I've managed to do all that is due to my move to Bath.
"The club has a fantastic commitment to developing young players and making them the best they can be."
