'He's a bit like Jonny Wilkinson' - Brive president hails Olding after new deal

Stuart Olding has signed a contract extension with French Pro D2 side Brive, just months after joining the club.

The former Ireland and Ulster centre was sacked by the IRFU after a high-profile rape trial, from which he was acquitted of all charges.

The 25-year-old signed for Brive in May, but he’s made an instant impression starting all six of their league matches so far and has now agreed a deal until the end of the 2019/20 season.

“Stuart has won everyone over, both with his rugby and on a human level” Brive president Simon Gillham said on the club website.

“He’s a bit like Jonny Wilkinson because of his technicality and courage on the ground and by his kindness and humility in everyday life. He is a good example to follow.”

Le CA Brive est heureux de confirmer le choix de Stuart Olding de poursuivre son aventure en terre briviste pour la saison 2019/2020 qui a souhaité activer son année de contrat quel que soit l’issue de la saison en cours.#WEARECAB
? https://t.co/jLbguQXA7I pic.twitter.com/EQL5lRuM6r

— CA Brive Rugby (@CABCLRUGBY) October 2, 2018

“After three or four days spent in Brive, I already felt like home,” Olding said.

“There is a good group of friends, with very good players. I am quite impressed by the rugby here.

“I was also impressed by the fans, who know how to be heard. I received a really fantastic welcome and for all these reasons, I want to stay in Brive for next year.”

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