Pleased to see key players staying on T

HIS week, we’ve seen two key players sign extended contracts with the club in Aaron Murphy and Dale Ferguson.

They are both players who give it their all every time they take to the field, maybe not always receiving the praise they deserve for their work, but they really are an essential cog in how the team plays.

Both Aaron and Dale have been with the club for a number of years and were there in 2013 when we lifted the League Leaders Shield.

They were a massive part of that side and are experienced players that can really help guide the team of today.

Dale is a massive part of what we do as he’s such a tough, physical presence in the side who leads by example.

His return to the club has reinvigorated his career, that shot on Quentin Laulu-Togaga’e taking him to the ground is a real standout moment of the 2018 season for him and he’s an important part of our future too.

At the beginning of the season he was probably one of, if not the, best player for us in the early stages of the campaign.

He’s also been named captain of the Scotland team. I know he’s very proud to represent them and I’m really pleased to see him achieve something that means a huge amount to him.

I’m a bit disappointed for him as he’ll miss their next three matches after having an operation as they try to qualify for the next World Cup, however, knowing him he will still be a huge asset among the squad and I know he’ll give it his all when he next puts on that Scotland shirt.

This year Aaron has been moved from wing to centre to backrow and for me, even though he didn’t receive many accolades, he was a stand-out player.

I think he’s made that position his own and I hope he continues there as his phenomenal work rate has been pivotal in that area, he’s really made a difference. He’s one of my favourite players with just how tough he is. He’s a warrior who always plays through the pain barrier and never gives up.

I think the re-signing of these two players is really important for 2019 as we’re ensuring we have a strong spine to the team.

There’s lots of work going on behind the scenes to make positive changes that will have an impact and I really would encourage supporters to make the most of our amazing season card prices to be there for a campaign we are really excited and optimistic about.

I’d just like to wish all the best of luck to the England squad and in particular Jermaine McGillvary who has been selected in the 19-man squad for the first Test against New Zealand tomorrow. Playing for your country is a huge honour and it’s great to see a local lad in Jerry performing to a really high level in an England shirt.

After watching the mid-season Denver Test, it’s good to see them back on home soil and I’m looking forward to watching the match – and of course the Haka!