England hooker James Roby has abandoned any thought of moving to the NRL after signing a new four-year contract with Super League side St Helens.

During the recent Four Nations series, Roby had expressed an interest in joining an Australian club when his current deal ends at the end of next year, but Monday's announcement means he is now tied to Saints until the end of 2014.

The news is a major boost for new coach Royce Simmons, who will now be hoping Roby's team-mate James Graham decides to follow suit.

Graham, too, is off contract in 12 months time and is said to have received offers from no fewer than six NRL clubs, but has promised to speak to St Helens before making a final decision on his future.

Roby, who turned 25 a week ago, has been given Keiron Cunningham's No.9 shirt for 2011 after playing understudy to the recently-retired club captain.

"It was a big but ultimately easy decision for me," said Roby, a former Super League Man of Steel winner, who has scored 58 tries in 203 appearances for his home-town club.

"The Saints have been my only club and are only going to get stronger.

"We are moving to a fantastic new training facility this season and to a new stadium the next. We've got a top new coach in Royce Simmons and have made some great new signings for next season.

"The next few years will be more than exciting for the club and at a time when I should be reaching my own peak."

St Helens chairman Eamonn McManus said: "This is a big boost for us and a clear endorsement of the future of the club.

"James is one of the best players in the world and crucial to our continued success. Having come through our academy and been at the heart of our success in recent years, he represents all that we strive for and produce at the club."

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