Super League: London Broncos tie three youngsters to longer-term contracts

London Broncos have tied down three of their most promising academy players to longer contracts, as they look to secure the future of the troubled club.

Under-19s stars Toby Everett and Joe Keyes have both signed new three-year deals, while Harvey Burnett has extended his stay until the end of the 2015 season.

London head coach Joe Grima said: "It's important we secure the future of the club.

Harvey, Toby and Joe are three key players that will play first-team next season, maybe even this season, so it was important for us as a club moving forward.

“Harvey, Toby and Joe are three key players that will play first-team next season, maybe even this season, so it was important for us as a club moving forward.

"I could easily put any of them into the team at any given time, particularly with Joe Keyes. From where he's come in the last four or five weeks, he wouldn't be out of place in a Super League team.

Clear pathway

"These signings show the academy and Under-16s players, and the rugby league community, that there is a clear pathway from junior level to the first team.”

Keyes, 18, is a product of the London Junior League and has represented England youth several times, while forward Everett, 18, is also tipped as an upcoming star.

Back Burnett, 18, is the first person to sign for the Broncos having risen through the mini and junior ranks, making his debut for Elmbridge Eagles senior team in April 2012, aged just 16.

London Broncos are rock bottom of the Super League, having lost all 16 of their games so far this season, and relegation looks increasingly certain for Grima's struggling side.