The outside centre, who is both England and Ireland qualified, joined the Exiles in summer 2013 from Rotherham Titans and has made 28 appearances, scoring six tries.

The 27-year-old formed a formidable centre partnership last season with Eamonn Sheridan in both defence and attack and has started all five games in the centre this season.

Mulchrone, who followed Gerard Ellis in extending his contract, said: “I’m delighted to have signed with Irish for a further two years.

"The club brought me in from the Championship last summer and have shown real faith in me.

"There are plenty of good things happening at London Irish at the moment, especially on the field, and I’m sure over the coming years we will continue to develop and improve as a side.”

London Irish director of rugby, Brian Smith, added: “Fergus has proved himself in the last year to be more than capable at performing at this level.

"He is a great character to have around the squad and has all the qualities and values we are looking for in a London Irish player. It has great to have him on board for another two years.”

Mulchrone's input since arriving at Irish has also made a big impression on backs coach Richard Whiffin.

“Fergus has an outstanding work ethic to improve each day and has developed into one of the top defenders in the league," he said. "He has a great desire to work hard and I have no doubt will continue to develop over the coming seasons.”

Irish hope to bounce back from last weekend's home defeat by defending Aviva Premiership champions Northampton Saints when they travel to Exeter Chiefs tomorrow (3pm ko).