Liam Watts, after months of uncertainty, has confirmed his contract situation with Castleford Tigers.
Watts, one of the few leadership figures in the current squad, only had a contract until the end of 2024.
However, he also had a one-year extension option which was yet to be triggered, meaning a very real possibility that could be lining up in another club’s colours in 2025.
However, it always seemed likely that the club would want him to remain with the squad for next year due to the lack of experienced heads in the side: especially as captain Paul McShane is retiring at the end of the season.
He has been with the Tigers since 2018, returning to the club where his professional career began.
Now 34, the veteran prop was rumoured by many to be thinking of a move to the Championship.
This week, his plans for 2025 have been confirmed.
Liam Watts reveals Castleford Tigers contract decision
Credit: Allan McKenzie/SWpix.com
Watts has confirmed his contract situation for next year to the BBC.
He revealed: “I’ve got my deal for next year with Cas.
“I was just to-ing and fro-ing over what options to do, whether to drop down a league and play part-time, and get a job, and put myself in good stead for life after.
“The mentality of getting beaten every week, it’s been tough mentally more than physically for me this year.
“I was in two minds over what to do: to stick around, crack on, and hopefully we can get some more signings on board for next year, and have a crack to get ourselves back up that table, and start progressing and getting more wins on the board.”
Other players that could leave include Luis Johnson and Samy Kibula, who have both spent time on loan in the RFL Championship with Featherstone Rovers this year.
Meanwhile, Brad Martin is expected to head to Leigh Leopards next year – while Danny Richardson and Jack Broadbent will both make their moves to Hull KR permanent at the end of the year, after moving on loan.
