Melbourne moved quickly to offset the disappointment of losing Queensland State of Origin centre Dane Nielsen on Monday by re-signing exciting youngster Justin O’Neill for a further two NRL seasons.

The Warriors announced on Monday that they had secured Nielsen to a three-year deal from next season, with the Storm moving quickly to lock up winger/centre O’Neill to ensure they have adequate cover.

O’Neill, 21, showcased his potential with a hat-trick of tries against Penrith on the weekend, and has already caught the eye of Queensland Origin selectors having been part of their emerging Origin squad.

“My decision to stay with Melbourne Storm was based on many factors, but the most important was the culture which the players and staff have created,” O’Neill said in a statement put out by the club.

“In this environment I think can play my best football here.”