Two-year deal extension for Glasgow's DTH van der Merwe

Van der Merwe joined in 2009 and his new contract runs until 2013

Canada wing DTH van der Merwe has signed a new two-year deal with Glasgow Warriors, subject to having a UK work permit and visa extended.

The Warriors say the 24-year-old was the subject of interest from other clubs, having become the Magners League's joint-second top try scorer.

"It was quite an easy decision to make," he told the Warriors website.

"Sean Lineen (head coach) gave me a shot two years ago and now it's time to repay that faith."

Centre Graeme Morrison extended his Glasgow contract last month, while Saracens lock Tom Ryder and Ulster wing Tommy Seymour have been signed up for next season.

However, centre Max Evans, flanker Richie Vernon and full-back Bernardo Stortoni will all be leaving Warriors this summer.

We've had a bit of a slow season this year but we can only build from here and hopefully, over the next five games, we can start that process for next season DTH van der Merwe

"I've enjoyed my time with Glasgow and I now want to build on what we have here," said Canada international van der Merwe.

"We've had a bit of a slow season this year, but we can only build from here and hopefully, over the next five games, we can start that process for next season.

"A lot of the players here have over 100 caps for the club and are still only 24 or 25 years old so there is a lot of experience, internationally as well, despite them being young guys. They will be a key factor for Glasgow in the years to come."

Lineen was delighted to retain van der Merwe.

"It's great news for the team and for the supporters as well," said the Glasgow coach.

"He wants to stay, which is important, and to have an X-Factor player like that makes all the difference. He's a great weapon to have out on the wing.

"He is a good player, has a good attitude and is a quality athlete."