Hull FC captain Gareth Ellis has signed a one-year extension at the club until the end of 2016 – but is already planning to prolong his playing career.
The 33-year-old scored twice in Hull's 34-28 defeat at Bradford on the weekend, and recently reiterated to the Mail his desire to fulfil his promise of being part of success at the Black and Whites.
Since arriving at the club at the start of the 2013 season, Ellis has been a model of leadership and consistency throughout what has been a difficult 18 months on the field for FC.
Despite the lack of trophies, Ellis insists he is happy at the club and wants to fight for the cause, given the security the deal gives him.
"It is obviously pleasing to have my future at the club a little more planned out, because with only a year left on my contract at the age that I am, it is a little bit daunting of what is going to be next," he said.
"So to have been able to secure another year on my contract is a great feeling, and just because it is only one more year it doesn't mean that's what I feel I have left, because I feel I can play beyond that.
"It has been a tough year, but the signs are all there for the club to progress. We have recruited well, the coaching staff are working really hard for us and (owner) Adam Pearson remains really committed to the club, so as a player that is what you look out for.
"Hopefully I can repay some of that faith that the club has shown in me by signing me again, and I will look to carry on with my best for the club for years to come."
Coach Lee Radford added: "Gareth is playing some of his best footy and thriving on his role as leader of this group, and those efforts have probably deserved much more.
"He will be fantastic for the big crop of youngsters we have coming through and has shown what it takes to be a world class back rower for the best side of ten years."
