Cohen commits to Saints

England star Ben Cohen today ended speculation about his future by signing a new three-year contract with Northampton.

The World Cup-winning wing had been linked to a move away from Franklin's Gardens earlier this season. At least three other Zurich Premiership clubs were monitoring him.

But Cohen, 26, has now put pen to paper at a club he joined as a teenager, the deal being finalised as Northampton prepare for tomorrow night's crucial Heineken Cup clash against Glasgow.

"I am very happy to have agreed to play for the Saints for at least another three years," said Cohen, who has won 45 England caps and scored 29 Test tries.

"I love the club and it feels like home, but that is not the reason I want to stay.

"I am convinced that this club has the will and the ability to start winning consistently, and in the near future compete for every honour available in club rugby. I want to be a part of that, starting tomorrow night against Glasgow."

Saints chairman Keith Barwell added "Ben has been an important part of the club for many years now, and I an delighted to confirm he will be staying with us.

"Ben and I both want to bring silverware to a club that means so much to us, and I hope with his help, that is something we will do in the not too distant future."

Cohen began playing professional rugby for Northampton as a 17-year-old, and has so far scored 79 tries in 187 club appearances.

His new deal will keep him at Franklin's Gardens until the end of the 2007/08 season.