LEEDS Rhinos have given a new three-year contract to their leading try-scorer this season Ash Handley.

The 22-year-old, who was out of contract at the end of the year, is now tied to his hometown club until the end of 2021.

Handley began his Super League career as a winger but has started the Rhinos' last 15 matches at centre in the absence of Liam Sutcliffe and has scored 10 tries so far, easily his best return.

"I knew this year was going to be a big one for me with my contract up and I wasn't a regular in the team," said Handley, who has so far made 69 appearances for Leeds.

"I knew I had to work hard and push for a place in the side and fortunately I have got a chance at centre and had a good run of games.

"I am delighted to sign a new three-year deal at Leeds and I am excited to see where that takes me.

"I knew I always had the ability to perform but it has been about the consistency in games and getting a run of matches.

"We have had a few disappointing results in the league of late but we are sticking together and we know we are not too far off."