LEROY CUDJOE has signed a new two-year Super League contract extension which will keep him at the Giants until the end of the 2010 season.
The 20-year-old former Newsome Panthers junior has been rewarded for an excellent first top-flight season with his hometown club.
The utility back has made 10 Super League appearances this season and scored his first try in the 50-16 triumph over Hull KR in May. He has also landed eight goals.
And caretaker coach Keiron Purtill is delighted with the progress the youngster is making.
“This is excellent news for Leroy and the club,” said Purtill.
“He is a kid with tremendous potential, who can continue to make a positive impression in Super League for years to come.
“He possesses all the skills. He reads the game well, can pass, kick and also kick goals.
“If he keeps working hard there’s no doubt he has a very bright future ahead of him.
“What’s also good about this announcement is that it shows the pathway from local amateur level, through to the Giants Academy and up into first team is highly successful. It should show youngsters playing the game what can be achieved.”
Cudjoe will now be hoping to celebrate the news by securing a place in Sunday’s side to face Bradford Bulls at the Galpharm (3.00).
He was 18th man in last weekend’s 46-16 Super League defeat at in-form St Helens, and Purtill admits no-one in the backs can now take a start for granted.
David Hodgson successfully came through his first game in six months following knee surgery at Saints last weekend and suffered no adverse reaction.
As a result he is expected to continue at full-back, while fellow former Great Britain winger Martin Aspinwall is responding well to treatment on a back strain and should also be available.
And with Chris Thorman (ankle) and Kevin Brown (ban) also back, Purtill knows the pressure is on.
“We’ll pick the team we think has the best chance to beat Bradford, and it’s up to everyone to show us that side should include them,” said Purtill.
Hudson pays price – Page 45.
