Club captain Matt Corker says he is looking forward to learning from the tough lessons relegated London Welsh have learnt in the Aviva Premiership after he signed a new deal yesterday.

The 32-year-old, who has made 223 appearances for the Oxford-based club, will embark on his ninth season with the Exiles when they kick-off next year’s campaign in the Greene King IPA Championship.

Corker will also combine his playing duties with his new role as Welsh’s line-out coach.

The second row forward is now eyeing a challenge for a return to rugby’s top flight next year.

He said: “After such a tough season I’m really looking forward to drawing on the lessons we’ve learnt to ensure our upcoming Championship campaign is a successful one.

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“I’m grateful to head coach Rowland Philips for allowing me to further my development as line-out coach next year.”

Welsh are on course to be statistically the worst side in top flight history with one bonus point.

They still have to play leaders Northampton Saints on Saturday and third-p