Cockerill convinced Geordan Murphy will sign new deal

Murphy returned to action for Tigers in February after a serious shoulder injury

Leicester Tigers head coach Richard Cockerill says there is no danger of captain Geordan Murphy quitting the club when his deal expires this summer.

The 31-year-old Ireland full-back has been discussing a new three-year contract for several weeks.

And although he is yet to sign, Cockerill told BBC Radio Leicester that Murphy's future lies at Welford Road.

"There's not a chance of Geordan going anywhere else. We've spoken to him and the contract's agreed," Cockerill said.

"He's given his word and we've given our word.

I'm quite happy and have agreed my deal so leaving is not something I'm thinking about Geordan Murphy

"It's been negotiated and agreed and there is just some detail that needs to be agreed that is being ironed out at the moment."

Murphy added: "It's not been signed yet. I'm just in the process of working out a few bits and pieces with it. I'm just trying to get it all sorted.

"I'm quite happy and have agreed my deal so leaving is not something I'm thinking about."

Murphy first revealed he was discussing a new contract with the reigning Premiership champions in the build-up to Ireland's Six Nations game against Wales earlier this month.

The negotiations coincided with Murphy's return to the Ireland team.

"It's a good offer and the club were happy to put it on the table," said Murphy.

"I'm 31 now, so the new contract would take me to 35.

"The way I play the game helps. I've never been a big-bosh monster. I don't run into people and don't try to make any massive hits. I just try to get by with what I've been given.

"I'm playing well and enjoying my rugby. I missed my first World Cup (in 2003) through injury and in the last one I didn't see a lot of game time.

"I certainly want to be involved in the next one. I'll do whatever I can to get to that World Cup."

Murphy, who endured a mixed relationship with Ireland coach Declan Kidney's predecessor Eddie O'Sullivan, was concerned for his Test future when he underwent a shoulder reconstruction last September.

Reassurance was provided by the new international regime but having seen off the challenge for the number 15 jersey from former long-term rival Girvan Dempsey, Murphy knows he now faces a similar duel with fellow British and Irish Lion Rob Kearney.

"The management have been very good to me. When you get injured you worry about your place - you wonder is that me finished?" he said.

"But the management phoned me and said that wouldn't be the case. They said I'd be given the chance again and that came sooner with Rob getting injured.

"Rob is a world-class player and I give full credit to him for everything he's done in the last few years.

"And there's more to come from him - he can get better. Hopefully the rivalry will be good for each other."