Kiwi fullback Josh McKay decides Glasgow future

Full-back Josh McKay declared it was an easy decision to sign an extended contract with Glasgow as he loves the freedom he gets to express himself on the pitch.

The former New Zealand Under-20 world-title winner has scored eight tries in 27 appearances since joining in November 2021.

The 25-year-old, who can also play on the wing, told the club’s official website: “In the end it was a really easy decision. I absolutely love the direction in which this club is travelling, and when I sat down and thought about what I want to do over the next couple of years it really aligns with the vision of everyone here at Scotstoun.

“We’ve got the freedom to play and have a go, and playing in the back three that’s exactly what you want to hear – you want to do your bit for the team and help the group excel. It certainly suits the style of rugby I love to play and I’m really excited for what comes next.

“Glasgow’s an awesome city to be a part of too – when I initially moved over from New Zealand, I didn’t really know what to expect, but I’ve absolutely loved getting settled into the city. We live near a lot of the boys and it’s a really good environment in which to live and work.

“First and foremost I want to get back fully fit and firing, so the focus for me now is to get my foot right and then get ready to attack next season. I can’t wait.”

Head coach Franco Smith added: “We’re pleased that Josh has committed his future to us for the next couple of seasons.

“He’s a model professional that brings a great attitude and desire to improve to every training session, and his ability to play on both the wing and at full-back is a real asset to us as a squad.

“He comes to Scotstoun each day with a real drive to be the best version of himself that he can be and we look forward to continuing to work with him over the coming seasons.”

Meanwhile, it has been confirmed that Glasgow fly-half Tom Jordan will miss next Friday’s Challenge Cup final against Toulon in Dublin after being handed a five-week suspension following a disciplinary hearing in the wake of his red card for foul play in last weekend’s United Rugby Championship quarter-final defeat by Munster.