‘This is my home’: Roosters star re-signs after drawn-out contract negotiations

The Roosters have given their fans a Monday boost by re-signing a rep star and landing a couple of handy depth players for 2023.

The Roosters have fended off interest from their rivals to re-sign Angus Crichton. Picture: NRL Photos

The Roosters have locked in star back-rower Angus Crichton for the next two seasons after the parties finally came to terms after protracted negotiations throughout 2022.

Crichton’s future has been a hot talking point all year, with the club’s salary cap reportedly an obstacle to the deal getting done.

The Roosters have paid big money for Brandon Smith to join them in 2023 from the Storm, while superstars James Tedesco, Joseph Manu and Luke Keary are just some of the players on big money next season.

But the Tricolours have finally landed the Kangaroos star who has scored a try in each of his two matches for Australia at the World Cup.

Angus Crichton celebrates a try against Scotland. Picture: Alex Livesey/Getty Images for RLWC

“I’ve made no secret of the love I have for the Sydney Roosters. This is my home and I’m really excited to have recommitted to the club for the next two years,” Crichton said.

“I know I have so much more to give and that my best football is in front of me, and I’m looking forward to continuing to play my role for this great club.”

Crichton won a premiership in his first year with the Roosters after he made the big move from the Rabbitohs in 2019, and he’s gone on to play 86 matches for the perennial heavyweights.

Crichton always wanted to extend his stay in Bondi. Picture: NRL Photos

“Angus is a valued member of the Roosters squad for the role he plays both on and off the field and we’re pleased to have secured his services for a further two years,” Roosters head of recruitment Daniel Anderson said.

The Roosters have also added depth to their squad for next season, with Jaxson Paulo joining the club on a two-year deal from South Sydney, while Jake Turpin will backup Smith at hooker in 2023.

Turpin heads south after a stint with the Broncos and will provide coach Trent Robinson with another option at dummy-half, with Sam Verrills off to the Titans, while Paulo can hone his craft learning from some of the best backs in the business.

Jaxson Paulo will add depth to the outside backs. Picture: Ashley Feder/Getty Images

“Jaxson is a skilful outside back whose best football is still ahead of him, and Jake is a specialist hooker who will provide some terrific depth to our squad,” Anderson said.

“We look forward to welcoming Jaxson and Jake when they officially join the club at the start of pre-season next month.”