12 April 2023 , 14:43
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Red-hot England half-back George Williams has ended talk of an NRL return by signing a new long-term deal at Warrington Wolves - and in-form Australian prop Paul Vaughan is staying, too.
The news is a real boost for the Betfred Super League leaders ahead of Friday’s massive top-of-the-table clash with rivals Wigan Warriors. Both players have been instrumental in the club’s brilliant start to the season which has seen them win all eight games so far. Williams, 28, has signed a new long-term deal until November 2026.
He currently leads the competition for try assists and carries and is the joint-leader - along with ex-Kangaroos forward Vaughan - for metres made on 1,566. Williams is also top of the Man of Steel leaderboard while New South Wales State of Origin star Vaughan, 31, has been a revelation in his debut campaign since joining from Canterbury Bulldogs and the duo’s retention is big hit not just for Warrington but Super League as well.
Ex-Wigan and Canberra ace Williams said: “I’m really happy to nail my future down. We’ve got a great group here and I’m excited for what’s to come. How we’ve started the year has been unbelievable and there’s a lot more behind that – the environment and culture we’ve all created. It’s enjoyable to come to work everyday, everyone’s got a smile on their face and I’m happy that I’m staying.
“As a half-back you’re probably hitting your prime years at my age or maybe even a bit older when your experience and understanding of the game is better. Hopefully my best years are ahead of me, we can keep winning and doing my bit for the team.”
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Vaughan - who has extended until the end of 2025 - said: “It’s a really good feeling. It was a big move for my family coming over but we’re really happy and settled and it’s exciting to be able to extend my stay. The club’s been really good to us and made that transition pretty easy. We’re loving it and it’s really exciting. I’ve said to a few people that I probably haven’t enjoyed my footy as much as I have for a very long time. I’ve got a smile on my face, the boys are playing well and it’s nice to be rolling off the back of that. I feel like we’re building something special and to be part of that for a little bit longer is also very exciting.”
Warrington boss Daryl Powell has overseen a perfect start to the season (Warrington Wolves)Head coach Daryl Powell added: “George [Williams] has been outstanding as a player and leader since I have been at the club. I think this re-signing is a significant one for not only our club but the game in this country. He is an international player in his prime who I think will continue to get better and be a driving force both at the Wolves and on the international stage.
“Paul [Vaughan] has started his career in the British game like a house on fire. His personality off the field and his impact on it have both been high quality and I am delighted he has agreed to extend his stay with us.”