Alex Samuel has signed a new contract with Glasgow Warriors, the boyhood club of the second-rower, who is now targeting more Scotland caps.
The 23-year-old made his debut for the club in a 37-0 win over Benetton in November 2022. He has made 58 appearances to date.
A product of the club’s academy, the 6ft 9in lock has captained Scotland U20s. He won his first senior cap against Portugal in November 2024. He added further caps in the routs of USA and Tonga last November, and came off the bench in Scotland’s 47-38 win over Argentina in the Nations Championship in July.
Samuel looks ahead
“It feels great,” Samuel said following his contract renewal.
“I’m looking forward to the next few years, and with the way the club is moving it was a pretty easy decision to stay.
“I’ve obviously been fortunate enough to play a lot of games in the last year or so, which has certainly allowed me to keep improving my game. The environment here is second to none, too, and that’s really put me in the best position possible for my own development.
“It’s great fun coming to work every day with your mates, and with guys that you’ve grown up playing alongside. It makes everything so much easier and I feel like we’re really building something together here at Scotstoun.
“I just want to keep improving and put my hand up for selection once I’m back fully fit. I’d obviously love to play for Scotland more as well, but first things first I’ve got to get myself back into the best form possible for Glasgow and give my all for the club.”
Smith praises influence
Head coach Franco Smith added: “As both a player and a person, Alex has contributed a great deal to our environment – he is a great influence at the club and the way he goes about his business is a credit to both him and his family.
“He provides a physical edge both with and without the ball, regularly putting in the hard work to put his team in the best position possible.
“He also possesses a real drive and desire to improve and become the best version of himself that he can be, and he is someone we believe will only continue to get better and better.”
Glasgow have extended their unbeaten start to the new season, pulling away to claim an impressive 47-27 win at Sale.