Alex Samuel has signed a new contract with Glasgow Warriors, his boyhood club, and the second-rower is now targeting more Scotland caps.
The 23-year-old made his club debut in a 37-0 win over Benetton in November 2022 and has since made 58 appearances.
The 6’9 lock came through the Warriors academy, captained Scotland U20s and won his first senior cap against Portugal in November 2024. He added further caps in the routs of USA and Tonga last November, then came off the bench in Scotland’s 47-38 Nations Championship win over Argentina in July.
“It feels great,” Samuel said after renewing his contract.
“I’m looking forward to the next few years, and with the way the club is moving it was a pretty easy decision to stay.
“I’ve obviously been fortunate enough to play a lot of games in the last year or so, which has certainly allowed me to keep improving my game. The environment here is second to none, too, and that’s really put me in the best position possible for my own development.”
Building something at Scotstoun
Samuel said playing alongside friends he grew up with makes the job easier.
“It’s great fun coming to work every day with your mates, and with guys that you’ve grown up playing alongside. It makes everything so much easier and I feel like we’re really building something together here at Scotstoun.
“I just want to keep improving and put my hand up for selection once I’m back fully fit. I’d obviously love to play for Scotland more as well, but first things first I’ve got to get myself back into the best form possible for Glasgow and give my all for the club.”
Smith praises influence
Head coach Franco Smith highlighted Samuel’s impact on and off the field.
“As both a player and a person, Alex has contributed a great deal to our environment – he is a great influence at the club and the way he goes about his business is a credit to both him and his family.
“He provides a physical edge both with and without the ball, regularly putting in the hard work to put his team in the best position possible.
“He also possesses a real drive and desire to improve and become the best version of himself that he can be, and he is someone we believe will only continue to get better and better.”
Glasgow Warriors have extended their unbeaten start to the new season after pulling away to claim an impressive 47-27 win at Sale.