Former Raider Marler signs extension at Quins

The 23-year-old, who has won 19 caps for England, had a loan spell at then, National 2 South side Raiders, after signing for the Harlequins Academy in 2008.

The prop made his debut for the Quins’ first-team in the 2009-10 season and has become one of the world’s most powerful front row players.

Eastbourne-born Marler is set to makes his 100th senior appearance for his Aviva Premiership club on Friday against Stade Francais.

Speaking to the club’s official website, he said: “I am really happy to have signed on again with my childhood club, Harlequins. When I was given the opportunity to re-sign for the club, there was never any doubt in my mind that this is where I wanted my long term future to be.”

Harlequins director of rugby Conor O’Shea added: “We are obviously delighted that Joe has committed his future to Harlequins. It is incredible to think that at just 23, he will make his 100th senior appearance this Friday.

“He is, and will continue to be, a corner stone in the pack and in the success of this club. Joe is developing into one of the leading loose heads in international rugby.

“Joe still has so much more to give and like us all, is hungry for more silverware for both club and country. I am really excited, as I’m sure the Harlequins supporters will be, to see Joe’s continuing development in the coming years in a quartered jersey.”