Bristol Bears' ability to compete with the very best clubs in Europe over the next couple of seasons will largely be dependent on the depth in quality in their squad, as such director of rugby Pat Lam has handed a new deal for key utility player Alapati Leiua.
The Samoan international – who has made 66 appearances for the club since arriving in 2017 – was one of Lam’s first signings when he arrived in the West Country.
Lam said: “Alapati has been on our journey from the beginning and we’re pleased to see him extend into his fifth season at the club.
"He is well respected in our team and it’s great he will continue to add value on and off the field for the Bears.
“His experience at the highest level and his versality across the backline has been invaluable for the team.
"While he is renowned for his physicality and power, it’s his ability to use his skills and experience to create space and opportunity for his team-mates which is invaluable.”
Leiua has played on the wing, at inside and outside centre so far this season, making 16 appearances in the league with 18 rounds completed.
Leiua represented Samoa in the 2019 Rugby World Cup and has made 31 appearances for the Pacific Islanders.
He said: “I’m really happy at Bristol Bears – we have come a long way in a short space of time and we know that there is still more to come.
“Personally, I’m really enjoying my rugby and how my game is developing.
" We have massive team goals here that we are focused on achieving and I’m pleased to be contributing to the Bears vision.”
