Australia international centre Matt Toomua has agreed a contract extension to stay with Leicester Tigers up to 2020.

Toomua moved to the East Midlands during the opening weeks of the 2016/17 season but suffered a knee injury in the European Champions Cup victory over Racing at Welford Road just two games into his Tigers career.

He worked his way back to full fitness for the start of the new season and has proved a key player in the opening stages of the season.

Toomua, 27, said: “I’m very excited about committing to the club for a few more years.

“I have thoroughly enjoyed my time here. Despite having an injury-interrupted first year, I have loved being a part of the club and am very excited about our ambitions in the near future.

“Leicester Tigers have a rich history and it’s a privilege to have the opportunity to add to it.”

Tigers head coach Matt O’Connor has known the international centre since he first moved into senior rugby with the Brumbies in Canberra and is delighted to see his commitment to the club.

“Matt is a world-class operator in attack and defence,” said O’Connor. “He brings out the best in the players around him, he’s a great decision-maker and communicator in the backline and everyone appreciates the quality of his work there.

“I’m absolutely delighted that he sees Leicester as the place to play his rugby and to continue his development.”