Evans signature is early Christmas present for Quins fans (From Wandsworth Guardian)

Evans signature is early Christmas present for Quins fans

12:19pm Thursday 1st November 2012 in Sport By Stuart Amos

Harlequins director of rugby Conor O'Shea has described securing the services of star fly half Nick Evans for another three years as an early Christmas present for fans.
 

The 32-year-old former All Black, who was to be out of contract in the summer, ended weeks of speculation over his future by penning a deal that will keep him at the Stoop until 2016 ensuring he will see out his career in west London. 

Evans has been influential in the rise of O'Shea's men as a Premiership and European force, which culminated in them being crowned Premiership champions in the summer having already lifted the Amlin Challenge Cup in 2011.

“There is not a player, supporter or coach in the game in England, let alone Harlequins, who will not be delighted that Nick Evans has agreed to stay with us for another three years,” said  Stoop chief O’Shea.

“The Aviva Premiership wants the best players playing in it and Nick is one of the very best.

"He contributes so much to this club both on and off the field and is the perfect role model for all young players,” O’Shea continued.

“While I know one of the main reasons he is staying with us revolves around his family, ultimately it is about his ambition to achieve things with this club. 

"We have started something here and Nick wants to see it through. His decision to stay is a great early Christmas present for all Harlequins supporters.”

Evans, who is approaching the twilight of his career, added: “Myself and my family are happy to have the opportunity to stay.

"I’m looking forward to continuing to play with a great bunch of lads and to working with a special coaching staff.

"There is no limit to what this team can achieve and I am excited to have an influence both on and off the field.
 

“My decision was made easy by the ambition of this great club, the success we have had and the hunger to want more.

“The support I have had from the supporters has been amazing and I will do my best to help the club stay one of the major forces in English and European rugby.”