Montanella re-signs with London Welsh

Aviva Premiership newcomers London Welsh have confirmed that Frank Montanella has re-signed with the club that plays at the Kassam Stadium in Oxford.

Montanella has been in outstanding form so far this season and has been a mainstay of the Club’s formidable scrum having played in 11 Premiership games since signing from Bourgoin in the summer, scoring two tries – against Gloucester and Wasps.

Recently named in the Aviva Premiership team of the season at the half way stage by Premiership Rugby, Frank was described as epitomising the club’s “warrior spirit”, and has quickly established himself as a firm favourite with the London Welsh supporters.

Franck began his professional career at Narbonne and had two seasons with Stade Francais before joining Bourgoin for the 2011-12 season. He gained his only cap as a replacement when France played New Zealand at Eden Park on the summer tour of 2007.

“I am very happy to sign for the next two seasons with London Welsh,” said Franck.

“I had other opportunities but I decided to stay as I share the same vision as head coach, Lyn Jones, – to secure the long term future for London Welsh in the Premiership ” and I am 100% focused on that goal.”

“I love the club, the spirit and the supporters; there is a real family feel. Right now I am happy and proud to be a Dragon!”

Commenting of Frank’s contract extension, Head Coach Lyn Jones said, “It could have proved a testing time for Franck adapting to English rugby, but he’s taken to the challenge and showed himself as a genuine Aviva standard player.”

“We are delighted to extend his stay here as he will prove a good signing both on and off the field.”