McManus opts to stay with Knights

Newcastle winger James McManus has extended his current deal to keep him with the club until 2013.

The Scottish-born flyer endured a miserable 2010 through injury, and has played just 8 games since making his debut for New South Wales last year.

But McManus, 24, says he is delighted to be remaining with the Knights.

“I love the town, I love the team and I am ecstatic that my fiancée Eshia and I get to stay here for the next three years,” McManus said.

“I spent six weeks in the off-season on the hills of King Edward park getting some miles under my legs.”

“My body feels fit and healthy and I’m excited for what’s to come in season 2011.”

Knights Coach Rick Stone described McManus’ decision as a “massive boost” for the club.

“It is a massive boost for our club at this time of year, James sets the standards in attention to detail and work ethic and his success since he has been in first grade is just reward for his hard work,” Coach Stone said.

“To have both our first choice wingers in James and Akuila Uate secured with the club for an extended period gives us the stability we are looking for on our flanks.”