Chris Pennell extends contract at Worcester Warriors

Worcester Warriors full-back Chris Pennell has signed a two-year contract extension in his testimonial year at Sixways Stadium.
Pennell has made more than 200 appearances for Worcester and is well on his way to achieving legendary status at the club currently battling Newcastle Falcons in the Premiership relegation fight.
Described by director of rugby Alan Solomons as an ‘unbelievable servant’ to Worcester, Pennell’s new deal will take his time at the club to 15 years at its conclusion.
Pennell told the club’s website: “I have been here a long time and the body is feeling really good. I am still enjoying my rugby and I still feel that I am learning a lot.
“Certainly for the next two years I want to push my standards on but I also want to influence the next generation in a really positive way and do what I can to bring a couple of youngsters into the fold as well.
“The exciting thing for me is what this club is going to look like in three or four years’ time. I might not be in a playing position by that stage but if I can influence some of these youngsters so that they are absolutely flying three or four years from now I will look back and be really proud.
“This club has been my life for the last 13 years. I am incredibly passionate about the place and about taking us to the next level. I truly think that we have got the group of players and coaches to really kick on.”
The 30-year-old laid down the gauntlet to England full-backs ahead of the 2015 Rugby World Cup by stringing together consistent performances for the Warriors, leading to him making his international debut on the summer tour of New Zealand in 2014.
Though he would miss out on selection, Pennell continued to prove an inflluential leader for Worcester by ending the 2015-16 as the Premiership’s leader in metres made.
Solomons added: “He is a Warriors man to his bootstraps and his contribution has been immense. He is an outstanding player, brilliant team man and serves on the leadership group.
“Perhaps, more importantly, he is an absolutely top-class bloke. We are extremely fortunate to have him here at Sixways and it is terrific news that he is extending his stay with us.”