Newcastle Red Bulls confirms new contract for long-serving captain

The 32-year-old club captain has signed the contract with an option to extend, in the hopes that he will see out his playing days in the North East. The prolific hooker has a solid try-scoring record with the former Falcons, having crossed over for 52 tries in his 179 appearances for the club.

North Yorkshire native McGuigan came through Newcastle’s academy and was the first ever graduate of their ACE programme to play first team rugby for the club.

Currently in his third spell at Kingston Park after spending time with Leicester Tigers, Gloucester and Ospreys, he spoke of his delight at extending his stay.

McGuigan said: “It was an easy decision because this is such an exciting period for the club, and it is not somewhere I ever really wanted to leave.

“This is where I call home, and I’ve enjoyed being back up here this season. There has obviously been a lot of change, which is ongoing, and we’re building all the time.

“It’s a club that’s definitely going places, and long may that continue.”

Newcastle Red Bulls’ sporting general manager Neil McIlroy said: “George has taken on a leadership role with us this season as one of our most experienced players, and I’ve been really impressed with how he has conducted himself.

“As well as the impact he has made behind the scenes he continues to play to a very high standard, and I’m happy that we have retained such a major asset.”