Cox pens new Gloucester deal

The 23-year-old travelled down the M5 to join Gloucester from Worcester in the off-season of 2010 and now puts pen to paper on new terms.

A former England U19, U20 and Sevens star, his preferred position is at openside but he is versatile enough to pack down at number eight as he did last Saturday in the LV= Cup against the Blues when he replaced the injured Brett Deacon.

An all-action flanker, comfortable with ball in hand, he played a pivotal role in two of Gloucester's tries of last season - Eliota Fuimaono-Sapolu's in the LV= Cup Final and Andy Hazell's at Leicester.

The number seven shirt is one of the most keenly contested at Kingsholm with Andy Hazell and Akapusi Qera also under contract but Cox insists that the competition has helped him to improve his game.

Internationals

"They're two international flankers so I know exactly how well I have to perform in order to get a game," said Cox.

"But, fair play to Brushy and Hoggy, they're 100 per cent honest with me. They tell me what I'm doing well, what I need to work on and when I'm likely to feature.

"They're straight down the line with me and a big part in how my game has developed since I came to Gloucester."

As with so many other players at this stage of the season, Cox admitted that this time of year can be difficult so agreeing a new deal is a massive boost.

"January 1st comes and you do start to have the odd thought about where you might be next season.

"There was some interest from other clubs but I never even entertained the idea of leaving. I'm ambitious, the club are ambitious and I honestly think there are some great times ahead.

"I feel I've improved as a player since I got here and, now I know I'm here for two more years, I can really focus on working hard, getting better and doing my bit to make Gloucester Rugby a success."