Toulon deny reports Ashton wants out

Toulon have denied Chris Ashton has asked to leave the club and say the former England wing has expressed his desire to sign a contract extension.

Ashton broke the Top 14 try-scoring record in a magnificent first season in France this year after his move from Saracens.

The rugby league convert said he still harbours ambitions of playing for his country after scoring a hat-trick in the Barbarians’ recent victory over Eddie Jones’ side.

It was reported Ashton has requested to have his Toulon contract cancelled in order to head back to his homeland and put himself in the frame for an England recall, but the three-time European champions say he wants to extend his stay at Stade Mayol.

“Following rumours circulating on some media, Toulon confirms that winger Chris Ashton is still under contract with the club for two seasons,” the club said in a statement. 

“To date, no request for termination of contract has been made by Chris Ashton. On the contrary, the English winger has asked for an extension of his contract.

“The club is studying this possibility. Any other information disseminated in the media may be considered completely unfounded.”

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