Entry 25, 29th November 2010
St Helens hooker James Roby has committed his future to the Super League club. The number nine, one of few players to really impress in the recent Four Nations Tour for England, had been linked with several Australian clubs but has now put pen to paper on a new 4 year contract that ties him to St Helens until the end of the 2014 season.
Roby has big shoes to fill, having been awarded the famous number nine shirt for the 2011 season in Royce simmons squad selection. The 25 year old has scored 58 tries in 203 appearances for Saints and after inking the new contract he said:
"It was a big but ultimately easy decision for me."
"The Saints have been my only club and are only going to get stronger."
"We are moving to a fantastic new training facility this season and to a new stadium the next. We've got a top new coach in Royce Simmons and have made some great new signings for next season."
"The next few years will be more than exciting for the club and at a time when I should be reaching my own peak."
St Helens chairman Eamonn McManus said: "This is a big boost for us and a clear endorsement of the future of the club."
"James is one of the best players in the world and crucial to our continued success. Having come through our academy and been at the heart of our success in recent years, he represents all that we strive for and produce at the club."
So much for the Aussies coming cherry picking the talent eh Eamonn? Roby was quick enough to sign on the dotted line when given the chance.
For what it is worth, I think this is a statement of intent from St Helens. For several years Roby has been understudy to the great Cunningham but now is his chance to step from behind the shadows. I think he can do it. He's already proven in more than 200 appearances he can and to be honest there is not a more exciting sight in Super League than seeing the jet-heeled hooker get away from a tackler or two. He's deceptively strong too and I think he is only going to get better.
In the words of a popular lager advert at the moment - good call James!
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