PROP forward Tom Spencer has become the latest player to commit his long term future to Leigh Centurions after signing a new contract to remain at the Sports Village until the end of the 2016 season.

The 23-year-old had initially inked a 12-month deal with the club from Wigan after impressing over two season on dual contract.

The former Wigan St Patricks player and BARLA under 19s international also made seven appearances for the Warriors first team and reached 50 games for Leigh with his appearance in the weekend’s win over North Wales Crusaders.

Centurions head of rugby Derek Beaumont said: “We initially signed Tom on a one-year deal and in his time with us he has been fully behind what we are doing at the club. Tom is the obvious person to be the next one to secure his long-term future with Leigh Centurions. I am delighted that he has extended his contract for another two years.”

His signing follows those announced recently of halfbacks Ryan Brierley and Martyn Ridyard.

Head coach Paul Rowley added: “It’s natural progression really. He’s been with us for quite some time even though he might not have been a fully registered Leigh player that long, but his enthusiasm and his passion for the club is contagious. We want to be keeping youngsters like that who have got a big future. He works hard, is conscientious and fits the type of player that we want.

“It was always our intention to start tying deals up early and this is just another example.”

Long-term roots appear to be being sewn at the Sports Village.

Rowley continued: “If you follow the lead of the most successful clubs in our game it’s not unusual for players to be signing five-year contracts.

“I definitely think if you have confidence in a person then that’s the route that clubs should be taking.”

Spencer is thrilled to sign.

He said: “I looked at Ryan and Martyn nailing their colours to the mast and I was keen on the way the club is planning for the next couple of years. I think a few more players will follow now.

“When you look at the new structure, it has come at a very opportune time for me. It’s good to be with a club that is on the up. I can now concentrate on my rugby and there are no distractions.”

Following the win over Crusaders, Centurions boss Rowley is set to name changes for Sunday’s game against Rochdale at LSV, kick off 3pm.

“It’s just our luck to get a team on form.” he said, looking at the Hornets’ last two results against Gloucestershire All Golds and Batley Bulldogs.

“It gives us a focus and rules out any complacency. We’ve got to be good and hopefully if 10 metres are policed properly we will get some consistency in our game.”