Eels re-sign several key stars

Parramatta have received a massive boost with the NRL club re-signing five key players, including gun halfback Tim Smith, for the coming seasons.

Smith signed a two-year deal to keep him at the Eels until the end of 2009 while former Queensland forward Daniel Wagon agreed to a one-year extension until 2008.

Rookie Feleti Mateo, 22, signed the longest deal with his three-year contract ensuring Parramatta have secured one of the best young forwards in the NRL until the end of 2010.
Prop Josh Cordoba (2008-2009) and hooker Matt Keating (2008-2009) were both also re-signed by the club.

Eels chief executive Denis Fitzgerald said it was a tremendous day for the club.

"When players commit like this it shows great faith in our coaching staff and playing roster," said Fitzgerald.

"They are popular players with the supporters and are a great base to build the club on for years to come.

"I'm particularly pleased with the retention of Feleti as I am aware of how keenly sought after he was on the open market, especially with one particular club."