Unsung hero signs new Oldham deal

LIAM THOMPSON . . . scored 12 tries in 84 appearances for the Roughyeds

LIAM Thompson, Oldham RL Club's tackling machine, is the latest player to sign a new one-year contract.

His new agreement, covering 2017, commits him to Roughyeds for his fifth season in a row.

The 24-year-old Wiganer's first two years at Oldham were blighted by injury, but he played in all but one game in the promotion season of 2015 and he has missed only three matches out of 32 in the current campaign that ends at Dewsbury Rams on Sunday.

DEBUT

Overall, he's scored 12 tries in 84 appearances since making his Roughyeds debut as a 21-year-old when he became one of Scott Naylor's first signings in 2013.

A player who makes a habit of winning the tackle count, this former Wigan and Widnes junior has built himself a reputation as a forward who loves to roll up his sleeves and graft.

Said club chairman Chris Hamilton: "Liam is an unsung hero of our pack. He doesn't always get the appreciation he deserves from fans, but he's always one of the first on the team sheet.

"He's one of those players who loves defending and tackling. He's a team player who always gives 100 per cent and who is often regarded by the opposition as 'one to watch'.

"We are delighted he has signed a new contract because he is such a valued member of our squad."

Ten members of the current squad are now committed to Oldham for next year.

They are: Joy, Spencer, Ward, Chisholm, Grimshaw, Turner, Clay, Gill, Langtree and Thompson.