Ex-St Helens star pushing NRL club to sign England teammate and “several” other English players

Herbie Farnworth demonstrated his class in England’s Rugby League World Cup campaign.

In fact he was nearly the hero for Shaun Wane’s side. As the ex-Wigan Warriors boss watched his team struggle, it was two tries for Farnworth that dragged England to Golden Point extra time.

He has impressed many but especially teammate and former St Helens star Luke Thompson who has pushed for his NRL club Canterbury Bulldogs to sign Farnworth to play fullback whish is Farnworth’s ambition as he enters the last year of his current deal allowing him to talk to other clubs.

The Bulldogs need a fullback and could make a play for another centre who wants the fullback birth who shone in the same game: Samoa match winner and Penrith star Stephen Crichton.

But if Thompson has his way it will be Farnworth at the Bulldogs in 2024. Meanwhile, he has also told Canterbury Bulldogs chief Phil Gould that there are several English players open to the NRL switch.

Gould revealed all to the Daily Telegraph: “Never spoken to Farnworth (but) Luke Thompson said he was very impressed with him from the RLWC. That’s all I know.

“Luke was particularly keen on Herbie.

“I think he manages himself and I’m told he’s sorted elsewhere. I haven’t delved into it and haven’t spoken to Luke since England lost last week.

“But yes, Luke was very impressed with several of the UK squad, including Herbie.

“Several have indicated they’d like to play in the NRL. There’s plenty of talent there.”