Patten to leave kennel

Canterbury has lost out in its hopes to retain fullback Luke Patten, confirming he will take up a three-year deal with English Super League club Salford next season.

Known as 'The General', Patten has exercised an option to depart the club at the end of 2010 to head overseas.

"Luke has been one of this Club's great leaders and we are sorry to see him go," Bulldogs chief executive Todd Greenberg said.

"We wish him well as he makes the most of an opportunity to extend his career in England and thank him for the service he has provided to the Bulldogs for the past 10 years."

"He will long be remembered for his incredible reliability and determination as the last line of defence and for his inspirational plays."

"His strong work ethic and his commitment to responsibilities off the field set a great benchmark for everyone who has played alongside him."

Patten has played 220 first grade games for the Bulldogs since joining the club from the Dragons in 2001, scoring 80 tries and winning a premiership in 2004.

The 30-year-old, who has represented NSW Country three times, will be recognised with a special tribute at the club's final home game of the season.

In better news for the Bulldogs, skipper Andrew Ryan has confirmed he will see out the final year of his contract and will be staying with the Bulldogs in 2011.

Ryan was also linked with a move to the English Super League but the 261-game veteran will play his ninth season with the club next year.