NRL: William Kennedy's strong form gives him solid case for a Cronulla contract extension

The talented Bathurst league product is close to signing a new deal with the Cronulla Sharks, the club which fostered him as a junior and gave him a chance in the NRL.

It is a chance which he has embraced with 30 games at fullback to his credit and constant improvement which has come through hard work and learning from those with greater experience such as star Roosters custodian James Tedesco.

"[James] Tedesco ... he's one of the star fullbacks. I watch his game very closely," Kennedy told NRL.com.

"The way he's involved and his energy around the ball is pretty good."

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Kennedy's current contract expires at the end of season 2021, but his form at fullback means incoming coach Craig Fitzgibbon will no doubt be keen to offer him an extension.

The emerging number one is currently sitting sixth on the Dally M vote count after returning another man of the match performance last Friday night against St George Illawarra.

He's even earned more votes that the Rooster he so respects.

Given his form Sharks' halfback Chad Townsend feels the club should do what it can to retain the exciting 24-year-old long term.

"His skill out the back is phenomenal, I hope he plays in a Sharks jumper for a long time," Townsend said.

"I think he's one of the guys who's really developed at the club ... he's really reaping the rewards of his hard work."

As for Kennedy, he is leaving the negotiations to others and letting his performances do the talking.

"I'm just waiting to see how my management goes [with getting a deal done] ... I'm just playing footy at the moment," he said.

"I love the club, I grew up around here when I was 16. I love Cronulla and it's a good place."

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