WOLVES boss Tony Smith has begun to lay foundations for the future after signing a trio of key players to contract extensions.

Louis Anderson, Chris Hicks and Paul Wood have all committed themselves to the club beyond their current deals, which expire at the end of the season.

Despite speculation over his future, Kiwi back rower Anderson has signed for a further two years, while both Hicks and Wood are on board until the end of 2010.

And the news has come as a welcome boost for Smith ahead of Sunday’s clash with Huddersfield at The Halliwell Jones Stadium, kick off 3pm.

He said: “I am delighted with each of the boys who have extended their contracts.

"It shows the faith they have in the club and its future, which is what we are building towards.

"Each of the players deserves to be here with their solid performances and support of club.

"I look forward to working alongside them in the future.”

Wood is currently in his 10th year at the club after graduating from the academy system following a successful amateur career with Ince St Williams.

A series of injuries over the last two years have limited Wood's first-team involvement but the 27-year-old has figured in all of his side's games this year.

Since returning to fitness, the mobile prop forward has rediscovered his form, playing an important role off the bench.

Anderson too has seen an improvement in performances this term and he is beginning to grow into his role as Wolves' second row enforcer.

There was doubt whether he would remain at the club beyond the end of the season, with speculation suggesting he could follow brother Fraser and cross codes to play rugby union in Japan.

But the 23-year-old, who is an injury doubt for Sunday’s game, will stay at The Halliwell Jones Stadium even though brother Vinnie’s future with Wolves is yet to be secured.

Hicks, meanwhile, signalled his intention to stay at Warrington last week and proved his value to the club by scoring a hat-trick and kicking 18 points in Friday's 58-22 win at Bradford.

The 32-year-old Australian has looked more comfortable since shifting to his preferred position on the wing this season, with Chris Riley nailing down the full back slot.

Hicks was named the Supporters Trust Player of the Season and is widely regarded to be the most successful of the three high-profile signings from Down Under made by the club in 2008.

He set a new Warrington record after scoring points in every one of his side's games last season.

For more on Paul Wood's reaction to his new contract, plus his hopes for a testimonial next year, read this week's Warrington Guardian.