Connacht have announced centre Dave McSharry has signed a new deal with the province that will keep him at the Sportsground until 2017.

The 24-year-old Dubliner has made 14 appearances for Connacht this season, scoring tries against Glasgow Warriors and Bayonne, although his international progress was hampered by injury last season after he was called up to Ireland’s Six Nations training squad.

McSharry said: “”I’m obviously delighted to have another two years with Connacht. I’ve been here four years now and it’s very much home for me. A lot has changed since 2011 when I first came in but without a doubt we’ve been building bit by bit and getting closer and closer to achieving great things.

“”It’s a really exciting time to be involved for everyone and I’m looking forward to seeing where we can go as a club.

Coach Pat Lam was delighted McSharry has committed his future to Galway, he said: "We're very pleased that Dave will continue to play his rugby with Connacht. He is an integral member of our team and someone we have a lot of confidence in.

“The fact that Robbie (Henshaw) is likely to be away with Ireland leading up to a World Cup year and with the recent injury to Bundee (Aki), it just highlights the importance of having quality experienced players across the squad.

“Our young back line is often talked about and the fact that Dave, at just 24 years old, is seen as one of the more senior backs, speaks volumes of not only his talent but also the potential there to develop his game even further and go on to achieve great things both personally and with Connacht.”