Luke Metcalf is officially off the market after the Warriors halfback signed a new two-year deal to remain in New Zealand until the end of the 2028 season in a huge blow to rival clubs who would have chased his signature on November 1 when he became a free agent.
Instead, the 26-year-old has decided to stay put after enjoying the best year of his career before a serious knee injury ended his season prematurely when he was in the mix for the Dally M award.
“Luke’s signing is really important for our club’s future,” Warriors coach Andrew Webster said.
“He showed this season the impact he had on our side and, with the right luck with injury, I know he’ll improve again and be dominant.
“I’m so happy he and his family have faith in us to go to the next level.”
Metcalf had his doubters at the start of the season but flourished as the chief playmaker following Shaun Johnson’s retirement.
He scored eight tries and tormented defences with his speed and footwork, with Metcalf determined to be the man to lead the club to its first title.
“I’m really happy to get it sorted and get it done, so stoked I can now look to the future and the next few years,” he said.
“We’ve got a really good team here and I think we can do something special. I can’t wait to get back and start playing.
“I’m so lucky to have a coach like ‘Webby’ and a CEO like Cam (George) who trust and believe in me. They gave me the chance to be a halfback and gave me the keys to the team.
“They trust me to guide this team around and get to the ultimate goal that we’re chasing. That was massive for me to have that. That’s something I’ve only ever wanted in my career.
“I feel it (the finals loss) left a bit of a sour taste in everyone’s mouth the way the season finished this year.
“There’s that lingering thing of trying to win the Warriors their first comp. That’s what keeps me up at night and keeps me motivated. You want to go down in history as one of the greatest teams and greatest players to play the game.
“For me, there was one way to do that and that was by winning a comp here with the Warriors.”
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