St Helens tie down highly-rated forward

St Helens have confirmed that young forward James Bentley has signed a new 12-month contract extension.

The 23-year-old, who has scored two tries in four games so far this season, was off-contract at the end of this season and was the subject of interest from several other Super League clubs.

However, the former Bradford academy product has now committed his immediate future to Kristian Woolf’s side and will stay with Saints until at least the end of the 2021 season.

“I am very happy to sign an extension with the club,” Bentley told Saints’ official club website. “We had a great year last season and I am looking forward to what the future may hold.

“I want to thank Kristian Woolf, my teammates and all the staff and the fans who have always made me feel at home. I am excited to get going again and hope to continue my development here at Saints.”

St Helens coach Woolf added: “It’s great news to have James committing his future to the Saints. James has a great attitude and gives it his all in every training session and on the field.

“He has already shown his talent this season since I came in and is an important part of our squad moving forward. If he continues to work hard and improve he will have a bright future ahead of him.”