Hull FC have revealed that captain Gareth Ellis has penned a one-year extension to his contract, keeping him at the club until the end of the 2017 season.
Ellis has played in eight of the Black and Whites’ 11 matches so far in 2016, playing a key role as they sit inside the top four in mid-April, with Lee Radford’s side on a good run of form up until their defeat at Leeds last Friday.
And Ellis admitted now the deal is sorted, he can focus on playing and winning things with Hull.
“It was one of my goals at the start of the year, knowing that my contract would be up, to secure a new deal, especially with the injury I suffered last season,” Ellis said.
“Before I got it signed it was obviously up in the air but I was determined as I’ve been enjoying playing and I still want to achieve things at this club.
“To get it done is a relief and a massive motivation to do well. It has worked out well and it’s nice to get it put to bed so we can crack on.”
Hull coach Lee Radford added: “I’m really pleased for Gaz. It’s fantastic that he is staying and wants to go around again.
“Our recruitment for 2017 won’t be as busy as it has been. We are looking for continuity and Gaz is a central part of that.
“We believe we have a good squad, a competitive squad and maintaining that moving forward is key, built around people like him.
“He has shown in the games he has played how important he is for us. His actions and leadership will be key over the coming seasons in our quest for success.
“As well as his efforts on the field he is a role model off it for any budding young player.”