Ulster hands over one-year contract to former Springbok Johann Muller - Rugby
Ulster’s lock, Johann Muller, has extended his contract with the club by one year. The franchise authorities on Tuesday, May 17, confirmed the re-signing of the contract in a press release.
The Mossel Bay born player signed a two-year contract with the Irish Club in 2010 and his early extension of contract is termed as a reward for his exceptional performance during the season. Muller has played 19 games for Ulster in the season. His on field
and off field presence has helped the Irish club reach the plays-offs of both domestic and European cups.
The extension has confirmed the Muller’s stay at the Belfast based club until the end of the 2012/13 season. The 30-year-old has expressed his delight over the extension in contract by a year. He said, “I've really enjoyed my first season with Ulster, not
only in terms of rugby but also personally.”
Muller expressed his satisfaction with the team’s performance during the season. However, he stressed the need to work hard to enable the squad to gain some silverware next season. He further added that the team’s performance in the season is judged by the
titles won and Ulster has not been able to accomplish that in the season.
In the absence of Ulster’s Captain, Rory Best, Muller has stood in as captain during a number of games. Commenting on his role as captain he said, "I've been in the fantastic position of having a leadership role within the squad. I hope I can keep trying
to help the younger players and they keep improving.” He has also expressed his optimism of working with the younger players and playing a role in their development to ensure that the club has the resources to maintain their form over the years.
Muller made his debut at the senior level in 2001 as he represented the Natal Sharks in the Currie Cup. In the following year, he joined Sharks to take part in the Super Rugby championships.
Muller has represented South Africa at the international level in Under-19 level and later played for the South African Rugby Union national team. He made his international debut against Scotland in June 2006.
He has played 23 tests for the Springboks in which he was a part of the starting xv 10 times. He last played a test in July 2009 against the touring British and Irish Lions.
6 feet 7 inches lock has the honour of representing the Barbarians and his long-term stay at Ulster might enable the squad to improve their game and performance.
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