The RFL

Huddersfield Giants’ 18-year-old centre Michael Lawrence has signed a new five-year contract which will keep him at the Galpharm Stadium until the end of the 2013 season.

Lawrence, a local product, made his engage Super League debut at the age of 17 at Warrington Wolves last season and has started 10 of the Giants’ last 11 matches.

“I’ve been a Giants fan all my life so deciding to commit for the next five years wasn’t a tough decision to make,” he said.

“I never considered looking anywhere else because I’m so proud to be a part of this club.”

Lawrence was today named in the 22-strong England academy squad to tour Australia next month.

Huddersfield managing director Richard Thewlis said: “Michael fully deserves this new deal on the back of his Super League breakthrough and selection to tour Australia with the international academy side.

“We are committed to local talent and he is a shining example for all young players in the area and indeed the game as a whole.”

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