Former Richmond back row star Guy Thompson reckons the chance to learn from Australian legend George Smith made extending his stay at Wasps an easy decision.

The ex-England Sevens squad player and Jersey hero signed a new deal on Thursday to take him into a third season at the former Premiership champions, having joined the club form the Channel Islands in 2013.

The 28-year-old made a significant impact in his first year at Wasps, making 25 appearances, scoring nine tries and being nominated for try of the season for his effort against Leicester Tigers at Welford Road.

He also picked up the man of the match award in Wasps' European seventh place play-off win against Stade Francais in Paris.

Thompson continued his impressive strike rate for a back-rower last season, scoring seven tries in his 22 appearances for the club.

"It's really nice to sign a new deal," he said.

"I just think with the way things are going at the club and with the move to Coventry being massively successful so far, it's an exciting time to be here.

"I do believe, with the way things are progressing, we will have the ability to really start competing at the top end of the table and be challenging for the title in the next few years.

"So to be offered an extension at the club was brilliant and I love being part of this squad."

He added: "Our back row is hugely competitive and we've got a cracking set of boys who are always pushing each other on and off the field.

"I just want to play as much as I possibly can, but also to make sure we work well as a whole unit.

"Having the chance to learn off a guy like George Smith, who has also joined Wasps this season, is an incredible opportunity and one I know the younger guys are really looking forward to.”

Wasps' director of rugby Dai Young said: "Guy has done really well for Wasps since he arrived from Jersey and I'm really pleased he has extended his contract with the club.

"Guy has not only proved that he's a Premiership player, but also that he can stand out in the Premiership, as we've seen through many of his performances.

"I've been impressed by the commitment he has shown since arriving at Wasps and I believe Guy will only go from strength to strength over the next few years.

"The back-row is an extremely competitive area at Wasps and to have Guy extend his contract boosts that competition further. It's a great position for the club to be in having that level of strength in depth.”