Harlequins backs coach Mark Mapletoft has admitted he jumped at the chance to extend his stay at the Premiership champions.

The 40-year-old, capped at every level for England as a player and formerly head coach of the England U20s set-up prior to his switch to the Stoop, has penned a new deal that will keep him at the Stoop until 2015.

“When Conor O’Shea offered me the opportunity to extend my stay with the club, it was a very easy decision," said Mapletoft on Tuesday.

"Harlequins is a fantastic environment to work in – supportive, challenging, fun and hugely rewarding to coach a large number of ambitious English players. 

Winning the Amlin Challenge Cup and the Aviva Premiership in successive seasons has given everyone involved with the club a boost, but we recognise that these successes are only a start.”


And Quins director of rugby Conor O’Shea admitted Mapletoft's contribution to last season's triumph at Twickenham could not be underestimated.

“Mark’s contribution to the recent success of the club has been significant," O'Shea added.

"We go back a long way now so on a personal level I am delighted that Mark has committed his future to us.

"In addition, his knowledge of England qualified emerging talent gained while working with the RFU is a real asset for this club.

"I’m very pleased that he has decided to commit himself to the club and am really looking forward to continuing to work with him.”