Halfback Brett Finch has committed long term to the Parramatta Eels, agreeing to a new three year deal at the weekend.

The new agreement means Finch, who at just 26 years of age will play his 200th First Grade game against Brisbane in round 12, will remain an Eel until at least the end of the 2011 season.

“It was always my intention to stay at Parramatta and I’m over the moon to have the deal squared away,” Finch said.

“I can’t speak highly enough of the players and coaching staff, I’ve really enjoyed my footy over the past 18 months under Michael Hagan and I’m looking forward to that continuing between now and 2011.

“The team has a lot of potential within and I’m confident things will only get better as the season wears on, I have no doubt we’re headed in the right direction.

“It’ll certainly be a great honour and privilege to play my 200th First Grade game wearing a Parramatta jersey and I’m very proud to have played so many matches at the highest level.”

Head Coach Michael Hagan said re-signing Finch was a priority for the team and for the club.

“It’s an important retention, the stability and enthusiasm that Brett brings to the team is really important both on and off the field,” Eels head coach Michael Hagan said.

“I think he’s shown more consistency and understanding of the game this year than he has in his whole career, he’s been instrumental in keeping us in games and helping us to win games this season.

“His temperament and confidence is a real plus for him at the moment and I look forward to him playing as vital a role both for the remainder of this year and also in coming seasons.

“I’ve also got to give Brett’s manager Steve Gillis a wrap, the process was conducted swiftly and to the satisfaction of all parties.”

Eels CEO Denis Fitzgerald has echoed his head coach’s sentiments, hailing the halfback’s decision to stay put as a vital one for the team.

“I’m personally very pleased that Brett has decided to commit to the Eels for the next three seasons,” Parramatta Eels CEO Denis Fitzgerald said.

“He’s in career best form and provides excellent stability and direction for the team around the park.

“He is also the kind of player you like to have around. He is a leader of men both on and off the field and is an enormously popular figure around the club."