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Jimmy Gopperth has signed a new contract with Wasps
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Dan Robson, Thomas Young and Kearnan Myall have also signed new deals
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The Kiwi playmaker is the Aviva Premiership’s top points scorer so far this season
Jimmy Gopperth has joined Dan Robson, Thomas Young and Kearnan Myall in signing a new contract with Wasps.
Wasps’ Kiwi playmaker is the Aviva Premiership’s top points scorer so far this season, chalking up 90 points in the first six games, including three tries. The versatile 10 has also been nominated for September’s Aviva Premiership Player of the month, having excelled for Wasps at inside centre in addition to spells at full back and his more customary position of fly half.
A key member of the senior playing group, who has captained the side on a number of occasions, Gopperth has played an integral role in the squad’s progress over the past 18 months, using his experience and game management skills to help guide Wasps to two Semi Finals last season. His accuracy with the boot has produced many memorable moments for Wasps’ fans, but none more so than his last-minute European Quarter Final clincher.
The 33 year-old, who won back-to-back Premiership Golden Boot awards with Newcastle Falcons in 2010 and 2011, has notched up 33 appearances and 343 points in black and gold since joining from Leinster last season.
Speaking about his contract extension, Gopperth said: “I’m really pleased to have signed a new contract with Wasps. The way the club’s going and the direction we’re moving in as a squad, the quality of players and coaching staff we have, it’s just a great fit. I’ve really enjoyed myself the last couple of years, especially this year, and I’m loving my rugby playing alongside a great bunch of guys, so why not continue it?
“I believe there’s a lot still to come from this squad. We’ve been learning our ways and making good progress, but I feel there’s more to come. We obviously have a few more people to come in which will help our cause, but we’re just looking to improve every single week. We’re on the right track but we’ve still got plenty to learn.”
Wasps’ Director of Rugby Dai Young added: “Jimmy is a very important player for us on and off the field. He’s played a big part in moving the club forward since he arrived. Aside from his skills and attitude on the pitch, his leadership, professionalism and encouragement of everyone around him are hugely valuable to the squad.
“Jimmy’s a very important cog to keep this side progressing and I’m really pleased he is on board with us moving forwards. We all know how good a 10 Jimmy is, but his versatility has also really benefited the squad this season as he’s shown his capability at the highest level as a 12 and has also covered 15 for us when needed. He is a top man who always puts the team first and because of that he is highly respected and is the type of player other players play for.”
