Rooney remains at Penrith

Current Australian flanker Luke Rooney has agreed to terms with the Panthers until the end of 2008. General manager Michael Leary is delighted that the local junior has decided to remain loyal to the club, labelling Rooney as one of the finest wingers in the game.

The signature is a boost for the club, who in the past few seasons have asked players to stay for a bit less given the success they had in 2003 and their future potential.

Given that Craig Gower has stayed put despite a huge bid by UK club Salford, the only remaining big-name Panthers off contract at the end of the season will be second rower Tony Puletua five-eighth Preston Campbell.

The club has been negotiating with both players and are said to be close to an agreement with Puletua. The New Zealand forward wishes to help out brother Frank, who came to the club last year, secure a contract too.

Campbell, the 2001 Dally M Medallist, is a little more complicated. He is being courted by potential new franchise Gold Coast Dolphins, who are aiming for inclusion in the 2007 season. If this occurs, Campbell hopes to play out another year with the Panthers before heading north to finish his career close to where he grew up.