SAINTS skipper Jon Wilkin has signed 12-month contract extension at the club.

Wilkin, who took over the captain's armband at the start of the campaign, has been operating at scrum half in the absence of Luke Walsh.

The former international back rower has been at Saints since joining from Hull KR in late 2002.

“This club has been an important part of my life and it is a natural thing for me to extend my contract,” he said. “I am pleased the club wanted me to do the same.
 
“I have had some of the best memories of my life here and I’m looking forward to continuing that for the next couple of seasons.
 
“Being captain is a role I am proud of. My remit is to now highlight and bring through some of the next leaders at the club.
 
“That can come from players at the early stages or their career, those in their mid or those towards the latter stages. Leadership might not be something they are accustomed to."
 
Wilkin has played 310 times for the club, scoring 86 tries and kicking two drop goals.
 
He has also made 22 representative appearances and captained England against the Exiles in 2012.
 
At Saints he has been part of squad that has won 12 trophies.
 
Chairman Eamonn McManus added: “It's great news for the entire club that Jon has extended for a further season.
 
“As well as a proven player at the highest levels, he is a natural leader and great ambassador. Given the youthful make up of our squad, it's critical that we have a highly respected, experienced and versatile captain, and Jon is certainly that.
 
“He's absolutely committed to the cause and we have a lot to look forward to under his continued leadership.”