COACH James Ford believes Liam Salter can “find new heights in his game” after the centre signed a deal to keep him at York City Knights in 2020.

The 26-year-old joined the Knights 12 months ago from Hull KR, making 27 appearances and scoring four tries as the club secured a third place finish in the Betfred Championship.

Ford said: “I’m really pleased that we’ve retained Liam. We all enjoyed working with him and deeply respect what he brings to the side.

“He runs great metres out of exit, generates good ruck speed, runs strong lead lines, hits hard and works tremendously hard in defence.

“Despite playing a heap of Super League, Liam’s attitude towards tidying up one or two small areas was inspiring for us all and we’re excited to see that same approach help him find new heights in his game.”

Salter said: “I’m really pleased to have re-signed for York, it was an easy decision in the end.

"The facilities here are absolutely fantastic, and the well respected culture and environment of the club along with the brilliant fans that back us all the way made it a no-brainer.

“Once again the club are putting together a squad capable of competing well in a very strong league and I’m excited to be a part of that, especially in the new stadium.”

The former Myton Warriors junior is noted for his strong defence, and is equally comfortable playing at centre or in the second row.

He was a graduate of the Hull Kingston Rovers academy and a mainstay at the club following his first-team debut in 2012, making 121 Super League appearances for the Robins before joining York.

The 18 players now signed on for 2020 are: Joe Porter, Sam Scott, Jack Teanby, Jason Bass, Connor Robinson, Kriss Brining, Matty Marsh, Perry Whiteley, Ronan Dixon, Will Jubb, Jordan Baldwinson, Brad Hey, Liam Salter, Danny Washbrook, Chris Clarkson, James Green, Ben Johnston and Will Sharp.