DAVID Fairleigh's decision to sign on for a second season at Saints is a vote of confidence for everyone involved at the club, according to boss Ian Millward.

Although Saints had back-up plans, lining up Adam Muir and Matt Adamson if Fairleigh decided to retire, Millward was determined to persuade the 30-year-old Aussie powerhouse to stay on.

Former Newcastle Knight Fairleigh has never taken a backward step from the first day he pulled on a red and white jersey, becoming a firm favourite with the Knowsley Road faithful.

Next term he will be joined by compatriot and test prop Darren Britt in a beefed up front row, and is a clear declaration that Saints don't intend on resting on their three cup success.

Millward said: "David's decision is a real vote of confidence for everyone at the club. A month ago Dave told me he was going to retire. But we kept at him and his wife having the baby last week has relieved some of the pressure.

"I was ecstatic when he told me on Friday. It is a big boost for the players and for Dave it is a great way for him to finish his career."