Smiths signs bumper Eels contract

The Parramatta Eels have extended centre Ben Smith's deal with the club until the end of the 2012 NRL season.

The 23-year-old has agreed to a new four-year deal with the club where he made his debut in 2004, scoring 25 tries in 58 first grade appearances.

Smith says he wants to repay the faith the club has shown in him.

"The future looks pretty exciting for the Eels and I'm very happy to know I'll be a part of it," Smith said in a club statement.

"We've got a great squad and a top quality coaching staff and that's always a good mix to have."

"I think of myself as a one-club man and now the deal's done I can just focus on getting myself back to full fitness and playing some footy."

Eels coach Michael Hagan says the retention of Smith alongside young stars Krisnan Inu and Jarryd Hayne was a high priority for the club.

"It's a great outcome for the club to get the deal done," he said.

"Ben adds plenty to the footy team both on and off the field."

Smith is currently recovering from off-season shoulder and knee surgery but is due to return to action early in the new NRL season.

He is likely to undergo a positional switch this year into the backrow as rising stars Krisnan Inu and Jarryd Hayne form a fresh centre pairing for the Eels.