Bird set for new Sharks contract

Boom Cronulla rookie Jack Bird could cap off his dream debut season with a contract extension with the Sharks.

The Dally M Rookie of the Year is already signed to the club until the end of next year, but the Sharks are keen to lock him up before he attracts certain interest from other clubs.

“We’re well and truly down the track with that,” coach Shane Flanagan told foxsports.com.au.

“We’re hopefully going to get it done before we return in November.”

The 20-year-old had an incredible season in the No.6 jersey, scoring eight tries in 23 games, while also breaking through 72 would-be tacklers and creating 14 line breaks for his teammates.

However Flanagan believes he could be even better at fullback, and will give the youngster a chance to train there in the pre-season with Michael Gordon departing the club.

“That’s where he thinks he can play best,” Flanagan said.

“He’s got some good qualities that suit that position.

“The way he played this year at six he’s more of a runner so he suits that (fullback) role.”

Such a move would mean fellow youngster Valentine Holmes would remain playing on the wing, instead of moving into the No.1 jersey as expected.

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