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Argentinian international Carreras to stay at Newcastle Falcons

By Kim Ekin
Mateo Carreras shows off his explosive vertical ability against South Africa. (Photo by Amilcar Orfali/Getty Images)

Argentina wing Mateo Carreras has signed an extension with Newcastle Falcons that will see him remain on Tyneside for another two seasons.

Carreras credits the club for helping him earn full international honours with Los Pumas. The 22-year-old has won five times for his country, scoring in his last two tests against France and Ireland.

He's played 13 times for the Falcons.

“I am really happy to extend my contract here in Newcastle,” said the former Argentina 7s and Under-20s international.

“I love the club, I believe we have a good future here and I’m excited for the next two seasons. We have a very good group of players and staff at the Falcons, I enjoy being here and it’s fantastic to have signed for another two years.”

“I am really grateful to Newcastle, because it’s thanks to them that I’m now playing for my country.

“The Falcons have given me the opportunity to play top-level rugby in a great league like the Premiership, and every time I play for Argentina it’s thanks to everything that Newcastle have done for me.

“The coaches here have really improved me as a player, and I know this is a club where I can continue to get better. As well as that I really enjoy Newcastle as a city, and I’m happy to have at least another two seasons here.”

Carreras is one of two Argentinian at Newcastlee, alongside and Matias (Tosti) Orlando.

“When Tosti and I arrived here we didn’t speak much English, and we formed a very good relationship,” he said.

“I already knew him before I came to Newcastle but we have become very close friends, and he’s a great person as well as a great player. I have learned a lot from him on and off the field, and it’s really special to be able to share this experience with him.”

Newcastle Falcons director of rugby Dean Richards said: “Mateo is a real livewire in attack who continues to work really hard at his game.

“His pace and footwork are obvious but he also possesses incredible strength for a relatively small guy, which makes him a real handful for any defence.

“As well as that he’s just got a really positive attitude and a desire to keep improving, so it’s been great to see him stepping up and earning his first few caps for Argentina.

“He will be a key weapon for us as we continue to build over the coming years, and it’s more great news for the club that a player of Mateo’s ability sees his future here.”