Swinton retain key quartet

Luke Waterworth, Jack Hansen, Ryan Gray and Mike Butt have all signed one-year deals with Swinton.

Waterworth joined the Lions from Wigan Warriors ahead of the 2017 season and has become a key player in Stuart Littler’s side.

Littler commented: “Luke maps into our criteria of building a culture as he sets standards and is a quality person from a quality family.

“Luke’s performances this season have been very consistent and he is a player who will only get better.”

Hansen won Swinton’s Young Player of the Year award following an impressive season at half-back.

Littler said: “This year has seen Jack become a consistent Championship performer which has led to him being looked at by several other clubs.

“I am delighted that we have beat off an approach from his hometown team (Leigh Centurions) which really demonstrates the commitment Jack has to the club.”

Gray joined the Lions midway through the 2018 season from amateur side Leigh East and has impressed in his short spell at Heywood Road.

Littler added: “Ryan has really bought into the ethos I would like to build at our club and he is a player who is only going to get better.

“He strives to get better and is keen to learn all the time.”

Butt, 23, scored 10 tries in 27 games this season and finished just behind George Tyson as the club’s top scorer.

Littler commented: “Mike is another player who has been attracting interest from elsewhere due to the levels of consistency in his performances.

“I am made up he has chosen to continue his development with us at Swinton.”