Knights lock in future of NSW Origin representative Daniel Saifiti
Newcastle have continued their retention drive with the re-signing of NSW Origin prop forward Daniel Saifiti who credited the ‘special’ and ‘talented’ group of players at the club for helping his decision.
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New Newcastle coach Adam O’Brien has kick-started his retention scheme by re-signing State of Origin prop Daniel Saifiti for a further two seasons.
The 23-year-old made his debut at the Knights in 2016 and has played 85 games for the club, going on to make his debut for NSW in their victorious Origin series this year.
He’ll now be with the club until at least the end of the 2022 season.
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It’s hoped Saifiti and fellow Blues prop David Klemmer will make a formidable front row pairing for the Knights over the next few seasons.
“I’m so grateful for the faith the club has shown in me,” Saifiti said in a statement.
“While there have been some tough times, we showed improvement this season and are getting better.
“We’ve signed some quality players in recent times and that has certainly helped with my development.”
Saifiti is the latest player to re-sign with the club after the Knights locked in centre Hymel Hunt for a further two years last week.
However, Saifiti’s twin brother Jacob remains off contract beyond the end of 2020.
The pair originate from the Central Coast and moved through the Knights’ lower grades before making their NRL debuts in 2016.
While Daniel’s career skyrocketed this season, Jacob has been plagued by injuries and was restricted to just seven first-grade games in 2019.
“I owe a lot to this club. My brother Jacob and I came here as teenagers to play 20s and I’ve been living my dream ever since,” Daniel continued in the statement.
“We have something special here and a talented group of guys.
“I’m excited for what the future holds, not only for myself and my teammates but for our loyal fans. That’s why I re-signed.”
The Knights resumed training this week as they aim to improve on this year’s disappointing season in 2020.