Clarkson signs up to remain a Rhino

Leeds loose forward Chris Clarkson has agreed a new five-year contract with the Super League champions.

The 21-year-old Clarkson, who burst on the scene two years ago as a teenager, has already played twice at Wembley in the Challenge Cup final and was a member of the Rhinos side which won the Grand Final in October.

"I had a couple of years to go on my old contract but I was more than happy to agree a new, longer-term contract," he said. "We have something very special at the Rhinos and I want to be a big part of taking that forward."

Leeds' coach Brian McDermott said: "It is well documented about the spirit and commitment between our squad, and people like Chris are at the heart of that."