Wentzel has scored three tries this season

Leeds Carnegie captain Marco Wentzel has agreed a new two-year contract.

The 31-year-old, who joined Leeds at the start of last season from Leicester Tigers, was due to be out of contract at the end of the current campaign.

The former Springbok said: "I love life here in Yorkshire, it is an honour to captain the side and I know that brighter days lie ahead for us."

It is a timely boost for Leeds who are bottom of the Premiership and who host second-bottom Newcastle on Sunday.

"Obviously we find ourselves at the foot of the table at the moment but I have huge belief in this squad and I am sure we can get ourselves out of this situation," added Wentzel.

"We are not thinking beyond this Sunday's game at present and we know we face a tough Newcastle outfit.

"However, the spirit is still strong within the group and there is a similar feeling to this time last year when we turned our season around.

His contribution over the last season and a half has been incredible Leeds head coach Neil Back

"We are like a family and at the moment we are having some family troubles but we stick together and we know we will come out the other side stronger for it."

Commenting on Wentzel's new deal, Carnegie head coach Neil Back said: "It is fantastic news that Marco has agreed a new deal with the club.

"I know he was contacted by a number of other clubs however the fact that he has agreed to remain here shows the belief within the squad.

"His contribution over the last season and a half has been incredible and I am sure all the Leeds fans will be thrilled that he will be at the club next season.

"Marco's professionalism and the way he carries himself both on and off the pitch is an example of where we want to take our club.

"His ability as a player is outstanding however when that is coupled with his leadership on the field, it is a key ingredient to us being successful in the years ahead."

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