North Queensland Cowboys half-back Jake Clifford says he is keen to stay in Townsville amid reports linking him to Super League. Clifford is in the final year of his contract with the Cowboys and speculation has emerged around his future, with Leigh Leopards reportedly interested in adding him to their ranks.
Including this morning’s NRL clash with Penrith Panthers, Clifford has made three appearances this season, with the number seven scoring two tries in the win over Canberra Raiders. That was seen as something of a statement from the 27-year-old about what he can offer Todd Payten’s outfit beyond the end of the season.
However, his future has not been wrapped up as of yet and he has been asked by Code Sports if he would like to remain with the Cowboys moving forward.
“Yeah, I think so,” Clifford said. “Honestly, with rugby league your footy does the talking.
“Being off contract, there’s going to be noise around all them situations, and that (Leigh Leopards) was one last week.
“But I haven’t really given it too much thought just yet. I’m playing for the club I grew up following, and that’s all my main focus is.”
Clifford is no stranger to Super League fans, of course, with the scrum-half spending a season with Hull FC earlier in his career. He made 25 appearances for the Black and Whites in 2023, with five tries coming along the way.
He left the club after one year to return to his boyhood club North Queensland, where he started his career. Since then he has made 11 outings for the club, with most of his game time coming with Queensland Cup side Northern Pride.
The NRL season is just five games old, but Clifford is in the fray at present and he’ll be keen to stay in the side and earn himself a new deal.
