NEWCASTLE FALCONS have tied down another of their key men with centre Juan Pablo Socino having agreed a contract extension to the end of the 2017-18 season.

Socino, who moved to Kingston Park from Rotherham Titans last summer, has been a mainstay of the Falcons squad this season, with his powerful direct running and assured distribution making him a potent threat throughout the campaign.

The 26-year-old Argentinian has made 22 senior appearances this term, with director of rugby Dean Richards regarding him as a key part of the club’s future plans.

“Juan came to us as a very accomplished player in the Championship who was eager to challenge himself in the Premiership, and it is a challenge he has risen to superbly and has fully earned the two-season extension,” said Richards.

“He has established himself as a formidable centre who can break the gain line with pleasing regularity while his distribution skills and the partnerships he has formed with the rest of the backs sees opposition defences kept honest in games.

“He has developed a great deal across this season and I am sure he will continue to grow across the term of his new agreement.”

Socino, who can play at fly-half as well as in the centres, is delighted to be remaining at Newcastle despite rumours of interest from other Premiership clubs.

“I’m really pleased to have extended my contract here,” he said. “I am living my dream of playing professional rugby and enjoying the experience and pleased that the coaches want me to be a part of this squad for the future.

“The team has grown a lot this season, playing better rugby, making smarter decisions and running teams a lot closer and I’m looking forward to being part of more growth at the club.

“I am also pleased to be staying in a great city where there is always something to do with super friendly people.”