Tigers reward Thompson with new contract for 2019

Corey Thompson has capped off a memorable return to the Telstra Premiership with the Wests Tigers announcing his re-signing until the end of 2019.

Thompson joined the joint venture club after two years in the English Super League and has made an immediate impact, helping guide the side to three wins in their opening four games of the season.

The 27-year-old was a shock selection in the season opener by Ivan Cleary, who opted for the former Bulldogs winger over fan favourite David Nofoaluma after an impressive pre-season that proved too good to ignore.

Thompson has responded in the first month of the competition, averaging 140 metres per game and with four line breaks and three tries.

"I came back to the NRL with no expectations, just the opportunity Ivan gave me I wanted to take with both hands," Thompson told NRL.com on Tuesday.

"I love this club and feel like I've been here for a lot longer than I have.

"It's all worked out so far but now I want to keep working hard because we've still got a long way to go as a side and personally I can get better."

Head coach Ivan Cleary said Thompson’s new deal was a reward for his hard work.

“Corey has been impressive in how he’s committed himself to training and his efforts on the field since joining the club,” said Cleary. “His new contract is a great reward for his hard work and I look forward to seeing him continue to develop over the coming seasons.”

Wests Tigers CEO Justin Pascoe said that Thompson has been impressive both on and off the field.

“I’d like to commend Corey on how he’s settled into life at Wests Tigers and how he has bought into the direction that we are taking the club,” said Pascoe. “He’s an impressive young man who has quickly become a fan favourite and we all look forward to having him as a part of our club long into the future.”