English international signs new long-term deal at the Bulldogs

Speculation had him linked with a move elsewhere but in a huge signing boost for the Canterbury Bulldogs, English international James Graham has re-signed with the club for a further four seasons.

Signing a new long-term deal at the Bulldogs until the end of 2018, Graham has so far played in 45 NRL games and won the De George Peponis Medal for Player of the Year in 2013.

For Graham, he is pleased to have re-signed with the club.

“I’m just really delighted to be here for the next four years,” said Graham.

“It’s a great club to be at and I’m grateful for the opportunity that they’ve given me to stay really.”

Since his time in the NRL, Graham has become an elite prop in the competition and on a weekly basis, he showcases just how good of a player he is.

Despite all that and with room to improve, the key for Graham is to continue to play well and to play well as a team within the Dogs side.

“I don’t want to talk about our chances too much, that’s probably not our style,” said Graham.

“I’ve really enjoyed my time here and we’ve played some good rugby league, so hopefully we can continue to do that.

“I felt like I owed the club for wanting to have me here and I was happy to stay for another four years.”

Having been in Australia for about 2 years now, Graham has made friends in rugby league that have helped him and ones he hopes he can keep for life.

“A lot of really good characters within the dressing room and some friends whom I’m hoping, will be friends for life,” Graham said.

“You end up spending more time with them than you do with your family”.

Although her tenure has only been short so far, CEO Raelene Castle is pleased to see the English international re-sign.

“James is a popular figure within the playing group and is someone that leads with his actions from the front,” Castle said.

“We know James will continue to perform consistently for the club.”

Someone else who is pleased with the news is coach Des Hasler, who is well aware as to just how good Graham is.

“When you look at the stats each week, James is consistently at the top of the list,” Hasler said.

“I’m happy that he will be wearing blue and white for the next four years.”