Glasgow Warriors no.8 Johnnie Beattie today spoke exclusively to www.glasgowwarriors.org having signed a new two-year-deal with the club.

Beattie, who will start for Scotland against England at Murrayfield on Saturday, said: "I think the direction that the club has been headed towards the past few years is really taking a head on course now.

"I'm really happy with the way things are going and I just want to continue my development and keep pushing my way to start for Glasgow."

The Glasgow Academy former pupil now believes that the positive strides made by the coaches and the players during his time with the Warriors can contribute to continued success as the team pursues a place in the inaugural Magners League play-offs.

"I think we have a group of players now that are on the cusp of something," he continued. "That group of talent is coming through but it's also down to the hard work that's gone in behind the scenes by Sean and the coaches but also the players upping the ante and working a lot harder themselves.

"Although we're only half way through the season, things are looking positive and hopefully it will continue."