Olly Woodburn: Exeter back’s versatility impressing boss Rob Baxter

Exeter boss Rob Baxter says Olly Woodburn’s recent performances could justify a new deal for the veteran back.

The 34-year-old impressed in a first start at full-back in the dramatic win at Saracens on Saturday and he has also covered at centre in recent seasons.

Woodburn has scored 60 tries in 185 games for the Chiefs since joining in 2015, but is out of contract at the end of this season.

“Right here and now it’s going to be hard not to be talking about offering Olly a contract extension because [he is] one of our form players,” Baxter told BBC Sport.

The Exeter boss has been impressed with Woodburn’s versatility as he competes with youngsters Immanuel Feyi-Waboso, Paul Brown-Bampoe and Campbell Ridl out wide.

“I actually mentioned it to him two or three weeks ago if he would be okay playing full-back if we decided to select that way,” explained Baxter.

“He said ‘fine, not a problem at all’, so that process started a little while ago, and then I was delighted how he played.

“We thought it would be a good selection for Saracens in particular, but I think the way he played is opening up the opportunity for him to play more games at full-back, particularly with Campbell coming through and going well, Paul pretty much back from injury now and obviously Manny playing very well.

“So it definitely gives us some options around the back three particularly while Josh Hodge is carrying a bit of a knock at the minute.”