Exeter Chiefs’ rising star, Dan John, is set to become English-qualified following the announcement of his contract extension with the Gallagher Premiership side. The 23-year-old, who is the son of former Welsh scrum-half Paul John, has represented Wales at various youth levels but has yet to receive a call-up to the senior national team. Nonetheless, after spending almost five years with the Chiefs, he will now be eligible for selection by England. Since joining Exeter’s academy in 2020, John has made 19 appearances for the club, showing promise as a versatile back. Although injuries have limited his game time this season, his potential has caught the eye of director of rugby Rob Baxter, who sees a bright future ahead for the young player.
Baxter praised John’s development, noting his improvement towards the end of the previous season. Despite setbacks from injuries, the club remains optimistic about his contributions, especially in the back three positions. With John set to reach English qualification status this season, Exeter Chiefs are keen to continue nurturing his talent and integrating him further into their plans. The player himself expressed his delight at extending his stay with the club, emphasising the camaraderie within the team and the shared ambition to progress together. His commitment reflects a broader strategy within the club to retain and foster young talent for sustained success in the seasons to come.
Having observed John’s potential during his representative years for Wales, Exeter Chiefs believe that the best is yet to come from the promising player. The club’s coaching staff see him as a valuable asset whose skills are still evolving, hinting at even greater contributions in the future. With a renewed contract in place, John is poised to continue his development under the guidance of the Chiefs’ coaching team. His journey from Welsh youth ranks to potential English eligibility showcases the diverse pathways available to rugby talents in the modern game. As John prepares to take on a new chapter in his career, both he and the club are optimistic about the prospects that lie ahead for the talented back.
The signing of John’s contract extension marks a significant milestone in his professional rugby career, solidifying his ties with Exeter Chiefs and opening up avenues for international representation. The transition to English qualification adds a new dimension to his sporting journey, paving the way for further opportunities on the international stage. As John continues to hone his skills and gain valuable experience at the club level, the prospect of donning the England jersey looms on the horizon. His story serves as a testament to the perseverance and dedication required to excel in elite rugby, showcasing the possibilities that arise from talent, hard work, and strategic career choices. With the support of his club and the guidance of experienced coaches, Dan John is poised to make an impact on the English rugby scene while carrying forward the legacy of his Welsh roots in the sport.