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Ian Watson explains why he left Salford and chose Huddersfield over Hull FC

Ian Watson says the ambition and location of the club was the reason he opted to take over as Huddersfield Giants head coach.

The 44-year-old has earned rave reviews for his achievements at hometown club Salford over the last two seasons – leading them to both major domestic finals.

Watson’s decision to leave the Red Devils for the Giants has come as a surprise to many, especially after he turned down an offer from Hull FC earlier in the month – perceived by many to be a bigger club.

However, speaking to Sky Sports after his appointment at Huddersfield was confirmed, Watson went some way to explain his decision.

“I was attracted to the potential of the club,” he said. “Everything about it screams top four; the stadium, the youth academy with the kids that can be brought through and the owner of the club who has proven over time that he wants to win and he’s backed the club in his pursuit of success.

“My short-term aims are to ensure the club moves to the right side of the table… and the longer-term aims for the club have to be challenging the top teams in Super League.

“The footing the club has with the youth coming through, the location of the club and the owner means that it’s set up to do that.”

Watson will keep Luke Robinson on his coaching team, while bringing in conditioner Greg Brown and rehabilitation conditioner Carl Foulstone from Salford.

Having made a start on staff changes, Watson will now turn his hand to player recruitment and trying to build a successful squad for the 2021 campaign.

“My approach is about the collective,” he added. “Everything is about the team, the people you work with and having good relationships.

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