Super League: Kallum Watkins signs new five-year deal at Leeds Rhinos

England international centre Kallum Watkins has signed a new five-year deal with Leeds Rhinos.

The 23-year-old centre has spent his entire career at Headingley after starting in the club's academy and will remain with the Rhinos until the end of the 2019 season.

Watkins, who is currently at the Four Nations tournament with England, has scored 72 tries in 128 appearances for Leeds since making his debut in April 2008.

He told the club's official website: "I never wanted to play for any other club than Leeds and I am pleased we have been able to agree a new deal that keeps me here for the future.

To have our best young talent committing to not just Rugby League but Super League as well, is a major boost to our game and one that should not be underestimated.

"I have got a young family and the chance to be part of this team as we develop over the next few years is something I am very excited about.

"The cup final was very special and it has whetted the appetite for what is to come in 2015.

Tremendous group

"We have got a tremendous group of players at the Rhinos and a great coaching team and I think we can achieve even more over the next few years."

Leeds chief executive Gary Hetherington added: "Kallum's contract is a significant announcement for the Rhinos.

"To have our best young talent committing to not just Rugby League but Super League as well, is a major boost to our game and one that should not be underestimated.

"A player as talented as Kallum will inevitably be coveted by the NRL and rugby union.

“However, his determination to be part of the Rhinos future is something that I am sure will get all our supporters excited."