PROP forward Ronan Dixon has signed a new deal with York City Knights for the 2021 season.

Dixon has been a constant part of the Knights forward pack since chairman Jon Flatman's takeover of the club in 2017.

The 24-year-old has made a total of 59 appearances for York over the course of three seasons, scoring eight tries for the club.

The front-rower was denied more game time in the 2020 season by injury.

Of his retention, head coach James Ford said: “I’m very pleased to retain Ronan, he has lots more improvement left in him and we’re all looking forwards to helping him make them,” he said.

“He has lots of intent in his carry, whack in defensive contact and he has outstanding distribution for a front rower.

"Ronan has got a first-rate approach to his own development and I’m looking forwards to watching him kick on and impose himself upon our opponents.”

Dixon himself said: “I’m very happy to be staying and been involved with the club again.

"It was a no brainer and am looking forward to getting going next season after having my operation this season and looking forward to working with Fordy again.

“I believe the clubs going places and am proud to be a part of it for another year.”

A York statement said "the retention of Dixon wouldn’t have been possible without the incredible generosity and continued hard work of the 2020 Knights Patrons and Squadbuilder fund respectively."

Flatman added: “Because of them, we are able to continue building a strong squad for next season and we hope to be able to repay their faith with a strong showing in 2021.”