Wests Tigers veteran Chris Lawrence has finally re-signed with the club on a one-year deal, taking him to a remarkable 15 consecutive seasons at Concord.
The deal will make Lawrence the longest-serving one-club player in Tigers history, surpassing the recently-retired Robbie Farah by one season.
“This club has always been where I have called home and I’m really excited to be able to continue playing in the colours that I love,” Lawrence said.
“Under Michael Maguire, Wests Tigers is definitely going in the right direction so I’m looking forward to being a part of that and help bring the success this club deserves.”
The extension ends a drawn-out negotiation period between the two parties, raising the possibility of whether Lawrence would be forced into retirement.
Lawrence is only 31 years of age but has a long injury history.
However Maguire insisted the former Kangaroos representative still had plenty to offer their squad as a senior player next season.
“He has been a wonderful player for this club for a long time but continues to grow in his game and role on the field — which is most pleasing to see,” he said.
“Chris is a really key part of what we’re building here as one of the senior players in the side, and I have no doubt that he will continue to show that on and off the field in the year ahead.”
The club’s focus is now likely to turn to disgruntled second-rower Ryan Matterson, who has been heavily linked with a release just one year into a three-year deal.
The Tigers have also released Esan Marsters early, with the centre recently switching to North Queensland.