Adam Clune's week has progressed from good to great, the halfback signing a contract extension with St George Illawarra.
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The re-signing comes as the former Albion Park Oak Flats Eagle prepares to make his NRL debut.
Clune will line up at halfback for the Dragons in Monday's clash with the Bulldogs.
After toiling away in reserve grade for the past five years, the playmaker was offered a development contract last summer before he was upgraded to the club's top 30 prior to the start of the season.
The new contract will see Clune remain with the club until the end of 2022.
It's a deal even he admits was unexpected.
"Re-signing wasn't something I had expected or given thought to especially so early in the season but it's an exciting moment in my career," Clune said. "I've never been in this position previously.
"My journey has been different to most so to re-sign for a further two years is incredible. I'm looking forward to helping the Dragons move forward and achieve success.
"I love the club, the area and all the long-lasting relationships I've formed since I've been associated with the Dragons."
The news come in the midst of a horror week for St George Illawarra, the side reeling from a listless performance against the Warriors last Saturday.
Reports emerged Thursday night that emerging winger Jason Saab is on the outer in Wollongong.
St George Illawarra have confirmed the 19-year-old requested a release from his contract, however it has been denied. Saab is signed to the club until the end of the 2022 season.
With coach Paul McGregor and a number of stars under pressure, Clune will step into a side desperate to perform on Monday.
While the club has been struggling, the halfback said his teammates were thrilled to see Clune named in the starting lineup.
"Getting told I was going to make my debut was pretty crazy.
"I was overwhelmed when I was told; the reception I received from the boys was unreal. I'm grateful for all the support."
St George Illawarra recruitment manager Ian Millward said the new deal and his looming debut, are rewards for the work Clune has put in throughout his rugby league journey.
"It's tremendous news for our team going forward," Millward said.
"While Adam has had a number of injuries to contend with throughout his career, he has worked so hard to be where he is. Adam is a well-respected individual at our club.
"An extremely skilful and intelligent playmaker, Clune is a thorough professional and is a great example for other players to never give up and hang tough - his NRL debut this week has come as no shock to anyone at the Dragons."
"With Ben Hunt and Corey Norman already established players, as well as the emergence of Jayden Sullivan, we are certainly pleased with the balance of the playmakers within our squad for the coming seasons."
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