The nib Newcastle Knights have secured the future of exciting backrower Francis Manuleleua, extending his contract through to the end of 2028.
Manuleleua, 22, has made 8 NRL appearances this season, after making his NRL debut in Round 3 against the Warriors at McDonald Jones Stadium.
The New Zealand-born junior has been a long-term project for Newcastle Knights Head of Recruitment Peter O’Sullivan, who first identified Manuleleau as a 14-year-old.
“We are very excited to see where Francis can get to in his career,” O’Sullivan said.
“Francis thoroughly deserves this extension, he has worked extremely hard and come a long way in the past 18 months, since joining the club.
“He has a wonderful family and support group around him, with this extension he now has the opportunity to cement his place in our NRL squad each week.
“Francis is one of the most naturally gifted players we have at the Knights, his performances in NSW Cup and in the NRL has earned him credibility with the players and coaching staff.
“His ability to find space is second to none and his upside is limitless, but it’s his toughness, hard work and effort plays which has gained the most amount of respect from the group."
NRL Head Coach Justin Holbrook said he has been most impressed by Manuleleua work ethic.
“Francis has always been an exciting young player, what has impressed me the most is how hard he has worked, both in preseason training since November and throughout the season,” Holbrook said.
“He has always had the talent, what was lacking was the work ethic, to his credit Francis has turned that around to get himself into a position to play NRL and become a regular NRL player.
“From a coaching point of view, you want to see how much a player progresses, Francis attention to detail has ensured he has continued to improve every week.
“We are thrilled he has decided to continue his career with us at the Knights.”
