Warrington Wolves have extended the contracts of Ryan Atkins, Matty Russell, Declan Patton and Benjamin Jullien.
Atkins and Russell have agreed new deals until November 2019, Patton until November 2018 and Jullien for the 2017 season.
Centre Atkins, 31, made his Wolves’ debut in February 2010 and has since made 212 appearances, with 32 in 2016, including the Ladbrokes Challenge Cup and First Utility Super League finals.
He holds heritage number 1089 and has crossed for 138 tries to date. His performances this season saw him named in the Super League Dream Team in one of the centre positions.
Russell, 23, has made 70 appearances in the primrose and blue since his debut in March 2014, crossing for 19 tries. In 2016 he represented the Wolves both on the wing and at fullback. This international season has seen him selected for Scotland for the upcoming Four Nations, having already represented his country in Rugby League World Cup 2013.
Atkins said: “I had a year left on my contract so I jumped at the chance when the club offered me an extension. It means I get to do ten years at this great club. My girlfriend, little girl and I are all settled here; it’s home for us now. As soon as I signed here the people of Warrington made me feel comfortable and happy. I have enjoyed every moment of being at Warrington so there was no hesitation in signing the extension.”
Russell added: “I’m delighted to have signed a two-year extension at the club. It was a no brainer; I’m very lucky. I have loved it so far and the club is only getting bigger and better every year. I want to be a part of that and continue to share the Wire experience with our fantastic fans and all those who work at the club.”
Warrington-born halfback Patton, 21, only made his debut in April last season but started to make a name for himself this year stepping up to make nine first-team appearances including the win over Hull FC to lift the League Leaders Shield as well as a the Grand Final, crossing for a try at Old Trafford.
Patton said: “I’m over the moon to have signed another two years at Warrington. I struggled at the beginning of the year to get in but I went on to play in some of the big games. You have doubts in your mind with the big players who are here but I got my shot and kept my place so I’m looking forward to the future now. It means that bit more being a Warrington lad too.”
Frenchman Jullien, 23, made 12 appearances in his first season with the club in 2016 earning heritage number 1127. He also crossed the try-line on three occasions.
Head of coaching and rugby Tony Smith said on Jullien: “Benjamin was unlucky to come up with injury just after midway through the year. We’ve seen the potential in him as he’s a very athletic and versatile player, able to play in many positions. We’ve enjoyed working with him and he’s an exceptional trainer and very enthusiastic young player. We are looking forward to watching his continued development as a Super League player.”
