"He has trained well enough to make that position his own," Taylor said. "It's been his position and I don't see any reason why that will change between now and the start of the season.

New Wests Tigers captain Aaron Woods speaks to the media with coach Jason Taylor. Credit:Wolter Peeters

"There's been lots of positive conversations between Robbie and myself over a period of time. We have got to a great result this week and that's off the back of a lot of hard work from both of us putting the club first. I spoke to Robbie before [the Wood's announcement] and he is really excited for Woodsy."

Farah's guaranteed inclusion comes as new recruit Matt Ballin recovers from a knee injury which is likely to sideline him for the opening weeks of next year. Woods said he was grateful Farah had re-committed to the club and would use him as a sounding board for advice.

"I would have been filthy," Woods said had Farah left. "I would have hated to have played against him. He is such a good player and he knows how all the boys play here. He can be a coach when he retires.