The international duo have both signed new two-year deals, with front-row trio Mike Shelley, Matt Holt and Rob Rawlinson penning one-year contracts.

Tykes rugby director Phil Davies said: Gordon and Alix have proved their international class in the past two years, and we are hoping they can develop even further over the next two years.

Popham, a member of Wales World Cup squad in Australia last autumn, added: I was approached by clubs back home, but at Leeds I am able to play regularly in the best league.

Importantly, I am also happy living in Leeds and have really settled in with my family. At this stage of my career, it feels like the right thing to do."

Ross, meanwhile, had been linked with a move back to Scotland, especially as new national coach Matt Williams wants his Test squad based with regional teams north of the border.

Since the announcement was made by Matt Williams, I have not been contacted by the Scottish Rugby Union, but I jumped at the opportunity when Phil offered me a new two-year contract, said Ross.

Hopefully, over the coming years I can work with the coaches here to keep improving my game, and through my form at Leeds force my way back into the Scotland reckoning.

The Tykes had already announced new contracts with Argentine international Diego Albanese, scrum-half Alan Dickens and back-row forward Dan Hyde, as well as signing England A lock Chris Murphy from French club Pau.