Fletcher confident of holding rugby hero Wilkinson

0 Comments | AFP, December, 2007

NEWCASTLE, England (AFP) — Newcastle head coach John Fletcher is confident that this weekend's 22-19 triumph at Saracens will help convince fly-half Jonny Wilkinson that his future lies with the club.

The England star's contract expires at the end of the season, but Fletcher expects an extended deal to be signed following talks with the fly-half's advisers in January.

"We're talking with Jonny Wilkinson and those talks will continue in the new year," said Fletcher.

"We're due to meet with his management in early January and we've no reason to believe he won't sign.

"As a side we've been competitive for a period of time. We've added to the squad in terms of quality and we're bringing through a number of good younger players."

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