SAINTS skipper James Roby has signed a new contract that will  keep him at the club until the end of the 2021 season.

This will mean that the club's Mr Perpetual Motion will have been with the Saints for a remarkable 20 years by the end of his new deal.

The industrious number nine has clocked up 427 appearances since making his debut in 2004, crossing the whitewash 101 times.

A regular 80-minute player, Roby has won several major honours at club and individual level including the Steve Prescott Man of Steel Award, grabbing the first ever try at the new Wembley, touring with Great Britain and playing for England.

The former Blackbrook junior has turned down offers to join his teammate James Graham in the past and this new deal will no doubt see him retire as a one club man.

Chairman Eamonn McManus said: “James has already established himself as one of the all time greats of St Helens and of Super league.

"He is as fit and as motivated as he has ever been, and I have no doubt that he will lead our club with continuing distinction over the next three seasons.

"We are more than fortunate to have had James at St Helens for the last dozen years and it’s fantastic news that he’s dedicated himself to us and to Super League for another three.”

Roby added: “I would like to thank my family, everyone at the Club including Justin Holbrook, Mike Rush and Eamonn McManus as well as all the previous coaches who I have played under in my career.

"I have enjoyed many great years at the club and I will be doing all I can to bring more trophies in 2019 and beyond.”