Last Updated: Wed, 16 Sep 2009 12:04
Captain Keiron Cunningham has signed a final one-year deal with St Helens and he will retire from rugby league after one more season.
The 32-year-old former Wales and Great Britain hooker is approaching his 16th year at Knowsley Road and has made 445 appearances for the Saints, scoring 167 tries. Cunningham has been named in the Super League Dream Team seven times and claims he wants to go out while playing at 'the very top'.
He said: "I'm feeling mentally and physically strong enough to play at the peak of my game for another season.
"I'll then be looking to retire but aim for it to be at the very top."
Saints chairman Eamonn McManus added: "This is a great boost for us. Keiron's experience will be critical for us next season.
"He is already one of the all-time greats of the club and of the game and is key to the continuance of our success as a new generation of Saints players come through the ranks."
Saints coach Mick Potter said: "Keiron's presence and experience are a priceless commodity for us.
"He's a privilege and a pleasure to work with as the club captain and it's a big lift for us with the play-offs coming up that he's committed for another year."