New Rhinos deal for Watkins

Centre Kallum Watkins has become the latest Leeds player to sign a new five-year contract.

The 20-year-old has followed the lead set by Chris Clarkson and Ryan Hall ahead of the Super League champions' opening match of the new season against Hull KR next Friday in pledging his future to the club until the end of 2016.

"It is really exciting to be part of the Rhinos squad at present and I had no hesitation in signing a new contract with the club," he said.

Watkins, who has scored 19 tries in 42 appearances, missed out on the Rhinos' Grand Final win last October through injury but has been awarded the number three shirt for the new campaign.

Leeds coach Brian McDermott added: "This is another piece of great news for our club. Kallum is an exciting young player who has proven that he can perform at the highest level."