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Former Wales captain Matthew Rees has signed a new contract with Cardiff Blues that will keep him a top flight player for one more season.

Hooker Rees will be 36 in December but has been given an extra year by the Arms Park hierarchy, with a series of impressive performances in recent months sure to have done his cause no harm.

The ex-Lions No.2, who has won 60 caps for Wales, made 18 appearances in all for the Blues this season and has been with the Region since moving from the Scarlets in 2013.

Rees, who was a target for ambitious Principality Premiership-bound Merthyr RFC last summer, has set his sights on helping the Blues regain their Champions Cup status in what is likely to be his final season.

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He said: “After an enjoyable season it’s a pleasure to be asked to stay and I feel I still have a lot to offer both on and off the field.

“I enjoy working with Danny (Wilson), he is a very astute coach and the attention to detail he has brought this year has been a big factor in the league improvement.

“With the way we finished the season and the players we have brought in, hopefully we can really push on.

“As the capital region it is important that we get back to making the top six and Champions Cup rugby.”

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Wilson emphasised the value of Rees’ experience and leadership, saying: “During the 2015-16 season he has played some goodrugby and proved he has plenty left in the tank.

“His diligence and professionalism, both on and off the pitch, has ensured he has remained in good shape.

“Matthew will not only bring needed experience and leadership but will have a mentoring and coaching role to our younger hookers.

“We now have plenty of depth and a good balance between experience and youth.”