MUNSTER HAVE TIED nine of its current players down to new deals.

The province announced a series of contract extensions today, which sees Simon Zebo agree to remain at the club for another three years at least.

James Coughlan, Mike Sherry, Dave Foley and Paddy Butler have signed up to the end of 2014/15 as have development contracted trio JJ Hanrahan, Dave O’Callaghan and Luke O’Dea.

Sean Dougall, meanwhile, has penned a two-year deal.

Speaking to munsterrugby.ie, Munster head coach Rob Penney expressed his delight:

“I think it gives the organisation real security going forward having that number re-committing to the group. Its a real positive sign that the lads believe in what’s happening here and can see a future here for themselves.

“And I think for the Munster supporters and everyone that has an attachment to Munster they can be really rapt that the playing future is being secured for the short to medium and in some cases even a long term. So yes it’s wonderful news.”

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