STEFAN Ratchford’s time as a Warrington Wolves player will extend into a 14th season.
And after his new contract was confirmed, the veteran skipper insists he still has plenty to offer this squad of players.
The Wire have announced that their captain, who turns 36 on Friday, has signed a new 12-month deal to keep him as part of the squad until the end of the 2025 season.
It will give him the opportunity to cement himself in the club’s record books, given he sits sixth the Wire’s all-time goalkicking (636) and point-scoring (1,638) charts.
In total since joining from Salford Red Devils back in 2012, Ratchford has made 339 appearances for the club, scoring 91 tries.
“I’m really happy to have signed an extension and there’s no other place I’d rather be,” he said.
“Staying with the club for what will now be 14 years is something I never imagined when I first signed, and it means a great deal to me.
“It’s been great working alongside Sam (Burgess) this year and I feel we’re building something special with this group which I want to be a part of.
“I feel I’ve still got something to offer on the field and helping others to develop their game too.
“Hopefully we can have a successful end to the season, as well as next year, and we’ll see where things stand in another 12 months’ time.”
Of those 339 Wire games, 10 have come this year with Ratchford having largely played a supporting role in both the centre and half-back positions.
He is currently holding down a spot in the outside backs due to recent injuries suffered by Connor Wrench and Toby King, and head coach Burgess says his versatility means he will continue to play a key role for him.
“We’re thrilled to have secured Stef for another 12 months,” he said.
“He’s the ultimate professional, a club legend and a strong voice around the group.
“His versatility and willingness to do whatever the team requires, combined with his extensive experience, makes him a really valued player in our squad.”
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