32-year-old Spencer arrived at Franklin’s Gardens in 2005 after an international career with New Zealand that spanned seven years and 35 tests. His illustrious career with the All Blacks, Auckland and the Saints means that he is still on of the most desirable and recognised players in the world.

Since then he has played 79 times in the black, green and gold, providing plenty of memorable moments in the process.

Spencer won the Saints’ Player of the Year award by a landslide margin after just one season at the club, as well as the Saints Supporters’ Club Player of the Year. He also came second in the PRA Players’ Player of the Year award and was nominated for the Guinness Premiership Player of the Year.

Spencer has remained an integral part of the Saints squad this season and is one of only two players to have played in every game so far. His versatility has also been on show as his 22 appearances have been split between fly-half, centre and full back.

His contract extension means that Spencer’s stay at Franklin’s Gardens will continue until at least 2010. He has chosen to stay in Northampton despite plenty of speculation linking him to clubs across Europe.

“We have asked a lot of Carlos this season and he has delivered,” said Saints director of rugby Jim Mallinder. “He gives the team that something special and is always posing the opposition questions, no matter which position he plays in.

“He will be an important part of our squad as we make our final push for the Premiership and as we try to maintain our progress as a team.

“I am delighted that Carlos has signed for another two years at Franklin’s Gardens.”

“I’ve really enjoyed my time so far at Northampton,” said Spencer. “It is a top club with great players and supporters and with the way that Jim and the coaches want the team to play I think that there is a good future ahead of us. I’m looking forward to helping the Saints get back into the Premiership and being successful there.”