Former England U20 captain Jack Clifford has agreed a new deal with Harlequins and has been tipped to become one of the best players in world rugby, by boss Conor O'Shea.

The 22 year-old, supporters' player, players' player and young player of the year last season, has impressed in making close to 40 first team appearancs since making his debut in 2012.

“I am really pleased to have re-signed for this great club," he said.

"I have been associated with Harlequins for close to 10 years and I can’t think of anywhere better to be as I continue to gain experience and develop my career.

“There are a number of influential and experienced players within the squad and I am looking forward to continuing to learn within such a competitive and highly skilled back row.”

Clifford was named as captain for Harlequins’ European Rugby Challenge Cup match against Cardiff Blues earlier this season and is set to captain the Club again this Saturday against Calvisano.

“Jack is one of a new breed of players coming through the system. For me he has the potential to become one of the very best players in world rugby," said Quins' director of rugby O'Shea.

“He has had to be patient with injury holding him back in recent times, but in the last 12 months he has begun to really kick on. I can see his graph continuing to rise in the coming 12 months.

“He knows the competition we have in our back row means he will have to be on his game every week. Jack has potential to be a great leader within the group and we will work at developing that side of his game too.”