Paul Wellens has now made eight Grand Final appearances for Saints

St Helens have handed new deals to full-back Paul Wellens, winger Francis Meli and Aussie forward Chris Flannery.

Wellens, 30, and Meli, 31, have signed two-year deals, while Queenslander Flannery, 30, has extended his stay on Merseyside for another season.

Former New Zealand international Meli had been tipped to follow departing Saints coach Mick Potter to Bradford.

But he has opted to commit his future to Saints, with whom he now looks set to see out his Super League career.

Saints chief executive Tony Colquitt confirmed that Meli had been in demand elsewhere.

"We're delighted to secure the services of Francis as he had plenty of opportunities both here and overseas," said Colquitt.

"He had one of his most productive seasons to date and is an essential player at both wing and in the centres.

Paul Wellens leads by example and continues to be one of the best full backs in the business St Helens chief executive Tony Colquitt

"It's fair to say that all three players have been integral to the Club's success over the last few years.

"Paul Wellens is playing at peak of form and is an integral part of the team.

"He leads by example and continues to be one of the best full backs in the business."

Long-serving full-back Wellens, who is favourite to succeed Keiron Cunningham as captain next season, recaptured his international form in 2010.

He ran in 20 tries in 26 Super League starts in making an eighth Grand final appearance with Saints.

Wellens has now made more than 375 appearances for his home-town club - and he was rewarded with a place in the 2010 Super League Dream Team.

Flannery was signed by then Saints coach Daniel Anderson on a three-year deal from Sydney Roosters in 2007.

"Chris has proved to be the consummate professional," said Colquitt. "We are pleased he is staying at the club.

"He had his best year for the Saints in 2010 and I'm sure he will want to improve on that next season."

Saints offered new contracts to youngsters Jonny Lomax, Paul Clough, Jamie Foster and Tom Armstrong earlier in the week.

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