ENGLAND fly-half George Ford has extended his contract at Bath Rugby, the club have confirmed today.

Ford joined Bath from fierce rivals Leicester Tigers in 2013 and helped them reach the Aviva Premiership final last season.

The 22-year-old has scored 637 points in 59 appearances for Bath and burst onto the international scene in style in the 2014 Six Nations.

Ford has 17 England caps to his name and was part of the Red Rose World Cup squad earlier this year.

“It sounds like a cliché but it really was an easy decision to stay here at Bath,” said Ford, who in 2011 became the first Englishman – and the youngest nominee – to claim the IRB Young Player of the Year award.

“It’s a great set-up, and the squad are working so hard to achieve our goals. There is a real focus on developing each and every player here, and that is a hugely inspiring environment to be part of.

“I’m really looking forward to the next two years and playing my part in an exciting time for the club.”

Bath first-team coach Toby Booth added: “Bath’s re-emergence as a competitive force coincided with George’s arrival at the club.

“He is the epitome of a true modern-day professional – retaining and recruiting quality players like him is paramount to our further progression.

“George will continue to drive the standards here at Bath, both on and off the pitch.”