Aviva Premiership side Wasps were handed a major boost this morning as it was announced Joe Launchbury has signed a contract extension with the club, although the length of which has not been disclosed.

The versatile 23-year-old lock, who joined Wasps as a 19-year-old from West Sussex, is also an integral part of the English team having been named in Stuart Lancaster's 33 man squad for their QBE November Internationals, having already picked up 22 caps for his country.

Launchbury had previously been linked with a move to London rivals Saracens but has today shown his commitment to his club. Speaking on his decision to stay at Wasps he admitted there were a lot of factors to consider but "in my mind was where I would become the best rugby player I could be. Wasps is the place for me. To work with Dai Young was a huge factor." 

Young, Director of Rugby at Wasps, was clearly delighted with the news. "I am over the moon that Joe has decided to stay at Wasps" he said. Adding that he believes Launchbury will only grow as a player with the club.

The signing comes at a pivotal time for Wasps who are currently in the process of moving from London to Coventry which has been met with harsh criticism and was believed to be a factor in Launchbury looking for another club.