Rugby:Gareth Steenson has signed a new deal with the Exeter Chiefs. The former Ireland U-19 and U-21 outhalf, who revealed earlier this week he may switch allegiances to England, extended his contract by two years.

Steenson, who makes his comeback from injury against Gloucester tomorrow, is the second-highest points scorer in Exeter’s history, while ex-Northampton and Connacht forward Brett Sturgess has also signed a new deal.

Exeter head coach Rob Baxter said: “We want to develop and keep the same culture and beliefs that have served us well in the past, so it is important we keep guys within the squad who know all about that.”

Steenson and Sturgess, key figures in last year’s English Championship title-winning campaign, have followed team-mates Haydn Thomas and Tom Johnson in committing their futures to the Chiefs.