Gallen back for 2019

WHEN Paul Gallen was 18, he signed a one-year deal worth $2000 and drove his blue Mitsubishi Colt from Greystanes to begin his NRL career at Cronulla.

Almost 20 years later, the ageless Sharks co-captain has declared he will finish as a rare one-club man, on a careerending one-year deal.

While obviously worth more than $2000, Gallen’s one-year contract for a remarkable 19th season will be the smallest contract he’s earned in 12 seasons.

The decision to postpone retirement for another year means that if the Sharks legend plays in next year’s final series, he will be 38 – making him the oldest player in 52 years.

North Sydney Bears forward Billy Wilson was 40 when he retired in 1967.

Gallen, 37, who made his NRL debut in 2001, still has the drive and motivation to playon – which has been illustrated in his efforts this season.