Brilliant news.

There is no downside to this!

Bateman the player is the best young to come through our ranks since Leon, Peacock and Fielden in 98-99! This is great news for the club and for him!

Lets hope a few more follow suit now!

Official L-o-l at whoever said he was pulling our pants down, saying he loved the club then leaving

Excellent news. Sends out a message that we're here to stay.

Great news for a Friday morning

Can't wait to hear from all those who came out with 'I can tell you for a FACT that Bateman has already signed for Warrington'....

He has, we've loaned him back for 3 years.

Very happy with the news today shows the clubs ambition and drive foward. Come on now lets get nas signed up and gale on a long deal!!!

I imagine that there's an element of truth in the Wire rumours.

I should think that all of our 'in demand' players would have had back-up deals sorted for if we'd gone pop. There's no secret to Wire's admiration of Bateman and it wouldn't have surprised me if he'd have gone there if we'd have been relegated - particularly as it was an open secret that they were prepared to pay for him.

I must say, though, I got the impression that Wire handed themselves completely professionally and above board - unlike some other clubs.

I can't speak for how they are with signings. However, from my recent dealings with the Warrington club regarding the gate receipts money they so superbly donated to the Bullbuilder Hardship Fund, I can only say they come across as an extremely professional and thoroughly reasonable outfit. So it would not surprise me at all if that same attitude extended to their approach to signings.

You don't have to call yourself a Giant to be able to stand tall.

Great news!!!!

Quick question... Has whitehead's and o'brians contracts been put forward now?? They were held back if I remember right?

yes they have