Chris Henry signs new deal with Ulster

Chris Henry has signed a two year contract with Ulster Rugby. Credit: Presseye

Chris Henry has signed a new deal with Ulster that will see his contract extended by a further two years.

The backrow forward will be at the Kingspan until 2019, having made his senior debut in 2009.

His time at Ulster has also seen him win 24 caps for Ireland.

Speaking on the Ulster Rugby website, the 32-year-old said he was delighted to commit his future to Ulster.

"Les (Kiss) is determined to build a successful future for Ulster Rugby and I want to be part of that vision,” he said.

The back row forward will be with Ulster until 2019. Credit: Pacemaker

Henry said: “I believe that the squad depth is improving year-on-year, with Bryn Cunningham’s ongoing retention and recruitment of players leaving us in a strong position over the next few seasons.

"We have a core group of experienced players and have a developing pathway of talented youngsters coming through.

"I want to deliver on the pitch for Ulster, but I also want to ensure that I'm assisting the Academy players who have aspirations to play professional rugby."

He added: "The Ulster supporters are first class and there is no better feeling than playing in front of a packed house at Kingspan Stadium. I feel lucky to be part of a great environment and I'm delighted to commit my future to Ulster.”

Ulster’s Director of Rugby Les Kiss sounded similarly enthused by the news.

Les Kiss welcomed the news. Credit: Presseye

"Chris has been a key player for Ulster Rugby for a number of years and he represents everything that is good about the organisation," Kiss said.

“His integrity, commitment, passion and good humour are contagious qualities that make him a fantastic person to have within our squad.

"He has been unfortunate with injuries and illness over the past couple of seasons but he has worked extremely hard to get back onto the pitch and I've no doubt that he'll be a massive asset for us over the next couple of seasons.

"The player market is becoming increasingly competitive as a result of big budgets in France and England, but I'm delighted, as I'm sure the supporters will be, that we've been able to retain Chris until at least the summer of 2019."