Laidlaw: Two-year extension

Laidlaw was voted player of the season by his team-mates at the end of last term before being named skipper ahead of his sixth campaign at the club.

The 25-year-old was included in Scotland's provisional World Cup squad and featured in the warm-up win over Ireland last month, but was left behind after being beaten to a place by Mike Blair, Chris Cusiter and Rory Lawson, who have all captained the national team in recent years.

But Laidlaw believes his international prospects are best served playing for Edinburgh.

"One of the big pros for me as an individual is that I believe I can best push my case and promote my aspirations for Scotland selection by playing at Edinburgh Rugby," he said.

"Being named as captain also played a big part in re-signing as it's important to me and my own ambitions to be a leader.

"I'm a young captain so I think it will be good for me in the years to come."

Laidlaw added: "There's a lot of good feeling and exciting changes happening off the pitch while we're about to start a new chapter under head coach Michael Bradley.

"There are a lot of good young players coming though the club and I think that if we can build on their ability we can progress as a club, improve our league position and build our crowd and support."

Bradley believes Laidlaw's leadership skills have shone through already this season.

Bradley said: "He leads by example and sets very high standards for himself and others; that is the critical element."