Sydney Roosters will give fullback Anthony Minichiello a 14th season with the club.
The veteran, who has been a mainstay at the Roosters since 2000, has signed a one-year deal with the club. The re-signing was announced today.
There have been some doubts about whether Minichiello would continue into next season with the club, but the form of the 31-year-old made that decision relatively easy. The Roosters had been on the lookout for fullbacks, courting Manly's Brett Stewart, but Minichiello has been one of the form No.1s in the competition this season, and that has handed him a new deal.
Advertisement: Story continues below The new deal means Minichiello, who has played 18 Tests and 11 State of Origins for NSW, will almost certainly be a Rooster for life. It is thought that he will retire at the end of next season, ignoring the big money on offer overseas.
The Roosters have a young side this year and Minichiello's experience has been invaluable. With five-eighth James Maloney signed for next year and the club likely to secure Sonny Bill Williams, coach Brian Smith is building a formidable squad.
“My heart is with the Roosters – I’m a Rooster through and through. The Roosters have played a huge role in my life both on and off the field – I’ve spent half my life here and absolutely love the place,” Minichiello said in a statement.
“I’m really excited that I will continue to be a part of the Roosters for another season. There’s a great young talented squad here and we are looking forward to a bright future.”
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Read more: http://www.smh.com.au/rugby-league/league-news/minichiello-signs-new-deal-with-roosters-20120504-1y31n.html#ixzz1ts8toBgS
