Lions star Mike aiming for Euro summit after new deal

By lsullivan

MIKE Phillips has pledged his future to the Ospreys by finalising a golden handcuffs package that will keep him at the Liberty Stadium until 2014.

The 27-year-old's new four-year contract, announced today, is believed to be worth at least £1million, with some estimates reckoning the Lions scrum-half could rake in up to £1.4million if the region go on a silverware splurge.

The Ospreys have splashed the cash in order to hold on to one of their crown jewels, a player who is rated among the best in his position in world rugby.

In so doing they have scuppered plans for a Guinness Premiership club or an outfit from France's Top 14 to entice Phillips out of Wales. Leicester, Toulouse, Stade Français and Toulon were among those reckoned to be interested in securing his services.

Phillips, who returned from injury to start his first game in five months when the region played Edinburgh yesterday, said: "I've really enjoyed my time as an Osprey over the past three seasons and I'm pleased I've been able to agree a new contract.

"The Ospreys have helped me to develop as a player no end over the last three years and the improvement in my game has allowed me to represent Wales and the Lions.

"With my future sorted, it means that I can concentrate on getting myself up to speed for some of the big games that we have coming up.

"We've got a good squad with real quality throughout and some talented youngsters coming through. It's a close-knit group, I've got a lot of good friends here, and the way that we are improving year on year there's a lot to look forward to — the future is very bright.

"I'm really enjoying myself and I don't see that there's a need for me, or anybody, to want to go anywhere else.

"We have ambitions to be among the best sides in Europe. We aren't there yet but we are heading in the right direction.

"With the set-up here, everything is in place to go all the way. I'm excited about the future for the Ospreys.''

Ospreys head coach Sean Holley said: "It's great to have more positive news about another valuable member of the squad committing to the region long term following on from the announcement last week that Richard Hibbard had signed a new contract.

"Clearly, our squad is a talented one, and with that comes the inevitable situation where our players will be linked to other clubs.

"That's part of the modern game that we have to accept and live with.

"Mike is the latest in a line of proven internationals who have been happy to re-sign for the Ospreys, which shows the faith that the players have in what we are trying to achieve.

"Mike is a player who has shown at the very highest level what he can do. He has had some injury problems, but I know that he is determined to show that they are behind him, and to reach the heights of last summer with the Lions once again, which is excellent news for the Ospreys and Wales.

"We are delighted that another quality player sees his long-term future here with us."

MARK ORDERS