Cronulla Sharks captain Paul Gallen has re-signed with the National Rugby League club for another year in what he's said will likely be his last season.
Paul Gallen in action for the Sharks Photo: PHOTOSPORT
Gallen, who is 35, has played 277 games with Cronulla since making his NRL debut in 2001 and could join Andrew Ettingshausen as a 300-game one-club player after committing to one more year on Wednesday.
He said it was a straight-forward choice.
"There was never any doubt I was going play next year and it will probably be my last year," Gallen said.
"I love the club and I love the area.
"We are in a really good position at the moment to hopefully make the grand final and win our first premiership."
His signing comes just two days before the Sharks play the North Queensland Cowboys for a place in the NRL grand final.
Gallen missed the Sharks' qualifying final win over Canberra two weeks ago due to a back injury, but he will lead them in their quest for a final spot at Sydney's Allianz Stadium on Friday.
"Friday is the most important game of my career," he said.
"I did full training on Tuesday and did most of the session on Sunday. I will do our captains run tomorrow and will be fine.
"Everyone is really well, the week off has done us good. A few of the older blokes like myself, Mick Ennis and Luke Lewis have really benefited."
Sharks chief executive Lyall Gorman welcomed Gallen's contract extension.
"It is exciting news for the club and for Paul, everyone knows he is our spiritual leader," he said.
"There has been no greater clubman here at the Sharks."
-AAP
