Ellis Gillam says Whitehaven will go into next season with even more confidence – after he signed a new new one-year deal with Gary Charlton’s side.

Back-rower Gillam, 23, says he can’t wait to get back into action after the coronavirus lockdown put paid to Haven’s first season back up in the Betfred Championship.

But the former Warrington Wolves junior believes they will be more prepared when the new season begins next year.

“This will be my fourth season at Whitehaven and I’m looking forward to getting back into things with the lads and the new additions,” said Gillam.

“I think the new guys will fit in within weeks with the tight group that we are.

“We go into next season with more confidence knowing we can do well against the more experienced teams.”

Haven coach Gary Charlton is delighted to see Gillam back on board and thinks he will be a great asset to his ide as they take a tilt at the Championship in 2021.

Charlton said: “Ellis is a good, young, talented player that we see having a bright future.

“Last year, in the games he played I thought he produced his best performances for us so hopefully he can kick on and be a great asset to the team.”

Gillam first joined Haven for the 2018 season making his debut for the club at home to Oldham on February 18. He then joined Rochdale Hornets in the Championship for the 2019 season but returned to the Recreation Ground midway through the 2019 season. He has remained with the club since.

He has played 37 games for Whitehaven and scored eight tries.