FOLLOWING his breakthrough season George Wacokecoke has pledged his future to Newcastle Falcons - signing a new two-year contract to remain at Kingston Park Stadium.

The 24-year-old can play at centre or wing and has scored nine tries in his 16 appearances this season for the Falcons, who have won all 19 of their matches.

Born in Fiji but moving to England at the age of seven due to his father Josaia’s service in the British Army, Wacokecoke was in Northampton Saints’ and Bath’s academies before moving to the North East to play for Darlington Mowden Park and Northumbria University, from where he earned England Students honours.

Making his Premiership debut for the Falcons at the end of last season and going on to become a regular this term, Wacokecoke said: “Newcastle Falcons is the best place for me to develop as a player.

“Being surrounded by people like Dom Waldouck and Toby Flood has helped me a huge amount, just to listen to their advice and to take on board some of the things they’ve learned during their careers.

“I’ve had a lot of game time this season, which has also been important, and I’m just happy here.

“I’m in a good place personally, we have a load of talented young players coming through here and I really think Newcastle Falcons is a club where I’ll be able to achieve things.”

Director of rugby Dean Richards said: “George is in his first season of full-time training with us and has made a really significant impact, so it’s great news that he will be here for at least the next two years.

“He is a really talented footballer with a strong passing and kicking game as well as his obvious running ability, and he brings us something different.

“He threatens the defensive line and creates attacking opportunities, and this new contract reflects the hard work and improvement that he has shown during the season.”

Wacokecoke becomes the seventh Falcons player to renew terms with the club, following on from the contract extensions announced for Adam Radwan, Gary Graham, Alex Tait, Tom Arscott, Jamie Blamire and Toby Flood.

*Newcastle Falcons are next in action tomorrow when they host London Scottish in the quarter-finals of the Championship Cup. For tickets call 0871 226 6060.