STEVE Crossley has put pen-to-paper on a 12-month contract extension – meaning he will be at Bradford Bulls until at least the end of 2021.

The 29-year-old Academy graduate made his debut for his home-town club in 2010 and is into his third spell wearing the red, amber and black, having returned to Odsal prior to the start of last season.

Crossley was named captain by John Kear ahead of the 2019 campaign and will once again lead the team out in 2020 alongside new vice-captain Sam Hallas.

Former Clayton amateur Crossley has hailed the positivity around the current crop of Bulls' talents, insisting extending his current deal was an easy decision to make.

He said: “I'm over the moon. John approached me about this deal and I am always looking forward to staying at this club and seeing what the future brings.

“I am a Bradford lad, I grew up on the terraces watching the club and things are on the up now. There are a load of positives and make no mistake this was an easy decision to re-sign.

“It will always be a career highlight for me captaining this club. We are all excited about what 2020 will bring – it is a young but enthusiastic squad and we will be there to be competitive.”

John Kear believes Crossley’s extension represents a huge boost for the club.

The head coach said: “I am absolutely delighted. It is a really big commitment and shows the confidence Steve (Crossley) has in his fellow players, coaches and the club.

“Steve is a Bradford lad, he loves playing for his club and he has grown into his role as captain. He wants success and feels this club can attain success."

“It was one of the easiest negotiations I have been involved in, he is one of our main leaders and he wants to be part of the group that brings the Bulls back to Bradford and I am delighted to be working alongside him.”