New Scotland international tighthead prop Ed Kalman, who made his Test debut against Wales on Sunday, has signed a two-year contract extension with Glasgow Warriors that ties him to the club until 2014.
Kalman's cap call came a week after he played a major role in Scotland A's 35-0 win over England Saxons at Netherdale as one of six Warriors forwards in the starting pack and less than a month since he won praise from all quarters for a stand-out display against reigning European champions Leinster in the Heineken Cup.
In addition to his involvement with the national team, the 29-year-old is set to be a key figure in the Glasgow set-up in the vital final months of the current campaign.
The Warriors are currently third in the Pro12 table, and remain on course to challenge strongly for a place in the end of season play-offs.
Kalman, who emerged from the Whitecraigs club in Glasgow's southside, is keen to help the Warriors maintain their recent rise.
He said: "I'm really happy to have signed a new contract, and to know that I'm going involved in the exciting times ahead at the club.
"It's been an enjoyable season so far, both on a personal and a team level, and there's plenty to look forward to in terms of the challenges coming up in the next few months.
"There's a fantastic environment at the Warriors, a really positive team spirit and willingness to work hard for one another. That comes across in the way we're performing on the pitch, and it's a great thing to be part of," he added.
Head coach Sean Lineen saluted Kalman for his efforts so far this year, and backed the Technology Policy graduate to continue to progress.
Lineen said: "Ed has been in the form of his life this season. He's impressed us all with the work he's put in on and off the field to assert himself as a key member of the squad.
"With the early contracting work we've done, we've made it clear that we want to hold onto guys who show the desire and ability to really stand out in a Glasgow shirt. Ed certainly fits that bill and it’s fantastic to have him signed up for another two years."
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