Wasps issue strongly worded statement over 'unfounded' Launchbury rumours

Wasps have issued a strongly worded statement denying that Joe Launchbury would be leaving the club at the end of the season.

Gallagher Premiership rivals Sale had been linked to a move for the England lock but those suggestions have been dismissed.

The news will be a welcome boost and follows the recent signings of All Black tighthead Jeff Toomaga-Allen and Exeter Chiefs tighthead Jack Owlett, along with Toulon centre Malakai Fekitoa.

The club statement said "Wasps are aware of recent rumours linking Club Captain Joe Launchbury with a move away from the Club.

"These rumours are completely unfounded, and Wasps can confirm Launchbury will be at the Club next season.

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Wasps Director of Rugby Dai Young said: “Joe is Club Captain and has been a key part of Wasps for a long time. He is an asset to the squad.

“Joe is clearly a quality player who most clubs would want in their ranks, but he is contracted to Wasps and committed to the Club and the journey we are on.

“We hope Joe goes well in the Six Nations along with the rest of his Wasps teammates and we look forward to them all returning to the Club later in the season.”

Launchbury said: “Wasps are obviously a Club that have been great to me over the years and are extremely close to my heart. I’m fully committed to the Club and going nowhere.

“My focus right now is fully on trying to help England compete for the Six Nations title and I look forward to coming back to Wasps in March so we can finish the season strongly.”

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