James Roby has Saints deal extended

St Helens captain James Roby will remain at the club until at least the end of 2019 after the club exercised an option to extend his contract.

Roby, 32, has made more than 400 appearances for his hometown club since his debut in 2004 and was Man of Steel in 2007.

Coach Justin Holbrook said: “This was a very easy decision to make.

“As Captain, James is a leader within the group and quite simply one of the best players in Super League.

“He is an integral part of the club and the town. His experience, professionalism and leadership are second to none as are the standards he sets week in week out.

“I can see him playing for a couple more years yet.”

The hooker made his debut at the age of 18 and has played 42 times for Great Britain and England, including at the 2017 World Cup.

He was part of the Challenge Cup final winning teams in 2006, 2007 and 2008, as well as the Super League Grand Final in 2006 and 2014, and the 2007 World Club Challenge.

Appointed Saints captain ahead of the 2018 season, Roby has been named in the Super League Dream Team five times in his career.

Roby said: “I’m really happy to stay at my hometown club.

“Although there is a long way to go this season, everything is going well and I’m looking forward to the rest of the year and next.

“I’m proud to have played at the Saints my whole career and I’m really looking forward to the future.”