Canterbury have received a huge boost in the lead-up to their NRL campaign with the retention of stars Michael Ennis, James Graham and Josh Morris.

The trio, off contract at the end of the season, had been keenly sought-after by rival clubs. However, the Bulldogs are putting the finishing touches on each of their new contracts and are expected to make an official announcement before their round-one clash against Brisbane at ANZ Stadium.

Staying on: James Graham attempts to break through the Storm defence during the NRL trial match against Melbourne at Suncorp Stadium on February 23. Credit:Getty Images

‘‘We’re in the final stages of negotiations with all of those guys, so we’re comfortable we’ll have a strong backbone as we go forward,’’ said Bulldogs chief executive Raelene Castle. ‘‘It’s important for us to get that done before the season starts and we are on track to do that.’’