France fly-half Belleau extends Northampton stay

France fly-half Anthony Belleau has extended his contract with Northampton Saints beyond the end of this season.

The 29-year-old has contributed 97 points in 12 appearances, including two tries, for the Prem leaders since arriving from Clermont Auvergne.

Belleau made his international debut in 2017 and has won 12 caps so far, but is not in France's squad for the current Six Nations.

"Last season, when I made the decision to move away from France, it was a real challenge for me as a rugby player," he told the club website., external

"I didn't know if I would be able to do it, but when the offer from Saints came, I wanted to give it my best shot.

"It was like beginning a completely fresh chapter in my career; a different style of play, a different way of living, and a different way of understanding rugby. But being at Saints has been incredibly enriching for me, on and off the field."

Saints have not disclosed the precise length of Belleau's new contract.

Belleau has to compete with England's Fin Smith for the number 10 shirt but director of rugby Phil Dowson believes "genuine competition" for places is good for the team.

"He's got a great sense of humour – he's taken the (boxer) 'Tony Bellew' nickname in good grace, for example – and he's humble and unassuming, but with a real edge," Dowson said.

"He pushes himself incredibly hard with (head coach) Sam Vesty around decision‑making and improvements, and he's always desperate to play.

"Despite having his teeth knocked out against Harlequins, he wanted to step up immediately the following week when Fin was injured. You can't ask for more toughness and commitment than that."

Northampton have now tied several members of their squad to new deals for next season, including most recently hooker Curtis Langdon, full-back George Hendy and lock Ed Prowse.