Hailing from Merthyr, Fussell arrived in Ospreylia with a reputation as a quality finisher having scored 23 tries in 78 appearances for the Dragons. He's already made a big impact in the black of the Ospreys. Having touched down for the Ospreys on his debut, a defeat to Ulster on the opening day of the season, his second half touchdown against the Scarlets on Monday was his seventh in Ospreys colours, making him the leading try scorer this season to date.
Speaking after putting pen to paper on his new contract, Fussell expressed his delight at securing his long-term future at the Ospreys:
"I'm over the moon" he said.
"It just shows the faith that the coaches have in me to do my job on the field and as a player you can't ask for anything more. Coming here in the summer was the best decision I've made so far in my career, 100 per cent. I'm loving my time at the Ospreys.
"I always had confidence in my ability to succeed, I'm just grateful for the opportunity that I've been given here and I've grabbed it with both hands. I'm working with top class, experienced players day in, day out, and the move is really paying dividends for me.
"I need to stay on top of my game, keep playing well when I get the opportunity and everything will be okay. My job is to score tries for the Ospreys and it's one I enjoy doing, but consistency is the big thing for me now. Playing well and staying on top of my game is the immediate goal. There are people in this environment who are world class players and you have to stay on top of your game if you want to stay in the team. If I can get that consistency in my game, then I'm sure it'll be recognised."
Ospreys Head Coach, Sean Holley, added:
"The new contract is a reward for Richard's performances and attitude since he joined us, which have been exemplary. He is somebody we viewed as having a level of consistency and the ability to push his game forward, which he has already done in just half a season. He's had a lot of rugby under his belt in his time, but he suits our style of play and has adapted to it really quickly. We're delighted with him.
"He's taken his chances and he's proved that he's not just a safe pair of hands in the absence of Shane, he's a very real threat to the opposition. He scores tries, he's attack minded and he's got a kicking game. He's also able to do good work in and around the tackle area, which is very important for an outside back.
"He's an individual who has a very mature approach to his profession and he adds value to the team and to our environment. Hopefully he'll continue to grow with us."
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