Huddersfield Giants star in contract limbo as prop open-minded about potential exit

Matty English has spoken honestly on his Huddersfield Giants future, as he heads into the new season without a deal for 2027.

English is currently celebrating his testimonial year, and after making his debut for the Claret and Gold in 2017, he has been a mainstay since.

However, the 28-year-old could be about to begin his final year at the Accu Stadium, after recently revealing he is open to a switch to a Super League rival.

English spoke to the BBC last week, confirming that he was on the lookout to secure his future, be that at the Giants or elsewhere.

“It’s a difficult one,” he admitted. “Obviously 10 years is a long time at one place and it’s been a weird sort of year.

“I’ve never got to this stage without having another contract, if that makes sense, I’ve never really gone into my final year.

“I guess I’m kind of open to having that discussion with my agent to see what offers do come in.”

Bar a loan to Dewsbury in the early stages of his career and a short-term loan to Castleford Tigers in 2024, English has never been at any other club, and the prop is hoping he can continue that trend for a few more seasons yet.

A move away from Huddersfield would be difficult and emotional, though the prop knows he needs to do what is best for his career.

“It’s nice to look around, don’t just be naïve and [have] tunnel vision, see what other opportunities come in but I’m hoping the Giants come in with a competitive offer and it’d be hard to leave.

“It’s my first time in this situation so I’m kind of just putting my best foot forward in everything I do training-wise. I can’t wait for the games to come around and put my best performance out there and leave my off-field stuff to my agent and everyone else to worry about. I’ll just focus on my on-field stuff.”

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