Penarth born rugby player, Louis Rees-Zammit, has had his contract with Gloucester Rugby extended, as the youngster steps up to the senior squad on a long-term deal.

Rees-Zammit, who came through the Gloucester Rugby Academy, made his debut for the senior squad last season when he was part of the team selected for the West Country derby against Bath.

His senior contract comes on the back of some incredible performances this season, as well as numerous achievements including becoming Gloucester Rugby's youngest ever Premiership player, our youngest ever player in a European match, and the youngest player ever to score a hat-trick in the Premiership.

Added to that, last month he was named as Gallagher Premiership Player of the Month.

At just 18 years old, there's no doubt Rees-Zammit has an exciting career ahead of him.

Despite his signing with the English team, the player has not forgotten his hometown. It remains his dream to play for Wales in the future.

Louis Rees-Zammit said:

"I am delighted that my contract at Gloucester Rugby has been further extended to a senior squad long-term contract. I love being at Gloucester Rugby and I am enjoying every second of being part of such a great squad. It's been such an exciting year for me, and I am grateful for the support of all the staff, players and fans of Gloucester Rugby.

"My dream is to represent Wales at an international level, and I just want to keep working hard to achieve this goal, along with helping Gloucester Rugby reach our ambitions for success."

This dream might not be that far away with many predicting he will be picked for Wales' upcoming six nations squad, which will be revealed on Wednesday.

Gloucester Rugby's Director of Rugby, David Humphreys commented:

"Louis has had an amazing start to his professional rugby career at Gloucester Rugby. Not many 18-year-old Academy players get an opportunity to play regular Premiership and Champions Cup, but Louis has taken his chance and become a regular member of the matchday squad over the last few months. Having just signed an Academy contract, Louis's form has now been rewarded with a long-term senior contract based on his outstanding performances for Gloucester Rugby.

"Louis has a very exciting future ahead of him and if he continues to work hard at his game, he will achieve success at Club level and ultimately at International level with Wales. Everyone at the Club is delighted he has committed his future to Gloucester Rugby."

Johan Ackermann, Head Coach of Gloucester Rugby, added:

"For his young age, Louis has a very mature attitude, a willingness to work hard, and a commitment to rugby. If he stays humble and stays hungry to improve, I have no doubt that he has an extremely promising career ahead of him. Louis has settled in nicely with the senior squad in a short time and I, along with all the coaching staff, look forward to continuing working with him and see him develop further, alongside the rest of the Gloucester Rugby senior players."