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Rugby Union

Scotland number eight Johnnie Beattie has signed a new two-year contract with Glasgow.

The 24-year-old, who will make his Calcutta Cup debut in Saturday's RBS 6 Nations game against England, penned an extended deal 24 hours after Warriors team-mates Dougie Hall and Calum Forrester.

Beattie, who joined the club in 2004, 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.

"I think we have a group of players now that are on the cusp of something.

"It's also down to the hard work that's gone in behind the scenes by Sean (Lineen) and the coaches but also the players upping the ante and working a lot harder themselves.

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

Beattie is one of the 'Killer Bs' back row for club and country which includes John Barclay and Kelly Brown, though the latter is quitting Glasgow for Saracens this summer.

Head coach Lineen said: "Johnnie is a quality player. I've been working with him for a few years now and you can see the talent he's got.

"He has the X-Factor - especially on the ball, in the way he can play and get over the gain line - he just makes it look so easy.

"At this stage of where we are as a team, it's good that we've still got two of the 'Killer Bs'.

"It also shows a signal of intent from him that he wants to win something with Glasgow."