KEY POINTS:
New Zealand Warriors utility Simon Mannering has signed a new three-year contract, keeping the Kiwis international at the club until the end of the 2012 National Rugby League (NRL) season.
Mannering, 22, was off contract at the end of this year and had attracted interested from several NRL and Super League clubs as well as rugby union.
The Warriors' 2008 player of the year and World Cup winner today confirmed he would remain loyal to the club.
"This is undoubtedly one of the most important re-signings in the club's history," chief executive Wayne Scurrah said.
"Simon has been developed by the club and is a huge part of our future. He's a prime example of the pathway that's available for young players in New Zealand."
Mannering said it had always been his aim to stay with the Auckland-based Warriors.
"This is where I started and I love it here," he said.
"There's a great feeling around the club, the coaching staff is really good and I've always enjoyed being around the group of guys we have in the squad.
"It took a bit of time to sort out but it's a real relief to have it all settled well before the season starts."
- NZPA
