Tee Ritson will be ‘pivotal’ to Workington Town’s promotion charge next season says director of rugby Les Ashe as the youngster penned a new deal.

Ritson is the second of last season’s squad to agree terms with the club for their League One campaign.

And Ashe is delighted that the youngster is back on board and raring to go.

“Tee comes from a great background and he has worked really hard at the club since he joined,” said Ashe.

“Last season was the one where he broke through into the first team and became a regular. Without doubt he will be pivotal to our promotion fight at Workington. We are absolutely delighted that Tee has decided to stay with us.”

Ritson, who scooped three top awards at the club’s recent presentation night, is also being earmarked for new challenges, as well as receiving a call to represent Thailand against Malta this month.

Ashe added: “He fully deserved the awards he got at the presentation evening, it was testament to how well he has played all year and how much he has improved.

“It is great that he has an international call and we possibly see him fighting for the full-back position this year as well.”

Ritson follows in the footsteps of forward Stevie Scholey in re-signing as the club looks to build a strong local side.

And Ritson admitted this was key to him staying at the Zebra Claims Stadium.

He said: “I have thoroughly enjoyed my time at Workington since I signed. My game has improved steadily over my time here since I joined from Cumbria Academy.

“I have been able to learn from some great players.”