YORK City Knights have agreed a deal to keep veteran winger Tommy Saxton at the club for 2018.

The 34-year-old former Featherstone star, and a Challenge Cup winner with Hull back in 2005, has been on trial with York this past month as both he and the club assessed whether he should go round another year.

He has played in two of the team's three pre-season fixtures so far and is in the squad for today's final friendly at home to Hunslet (3pm).

Head coach James Ford reckons the 34-year-old's experience and knowhow could be key this year both on the pitch and in the changing rooms.

He said: "We've spoken to Tommy at length about the role I want him to play for us. We feel he's still got lots to offer.

"The boys love him, he's got a lot of experience and he's still a good player with an ability to make metres out of tough situations bringing the ball out.

“Tommy wanted another season and we wanted that too. He brings a lot to us on game day and he’s well-liked by the staff. But we just wanted to make sure both parties were making the right decision.

“We chose not to rush into anything out of respect for him. We didn’t want to push him round again if he wasn't at the right levels but he's looked sharp in pre-season and he's ready to go."

Saxton first joined York from Halifax in May 2016. He scored three tries in 13 appearances for York that year and notched two in 14 last season.

Ford added: “I'm really pleased we have him for another season.

"He’s had a superb career playing for excellent clubs at outstanding levels. The younger lads in the group will learn a lot from him."