York Knights have officially secured the permanent signing of Huddersfield Giants prop Matty English ahead of the 2027 season, following crucial backing from the club’s Squad Builder fund.
The 28-year-old former England Knight initially joined Mark Applegarth’s side on loan for the remainder of the 2026 campaign, but has now put pen to paper on a long-term agreement at the LNER Community Stadium.
English brings vast top-flight experience to North Yorkshire having spent 10 seasons with Huddersfield, coming through the Giants’ academy system to make his senior debut in 2017 and earning a testimonial year in 2026.
Despite completing his initial loan switch to the Knights in August ahead of their fixture against St Helens, the forward suffered a cruel ACL injury that prevented him from making an appearance before the end of the year.
Speaking on his permanent move, English expressed his determination to repay the club’s faith once he completes his rehabilitation:
“I’m really excited for the next couple of years with the Knights.”
“It wasn’t the start I could have hoped for but I am doing everything I can to make sure I come back stronger than before.”
“Seeing how passionate the fans are and how together this group of lads are, is making me even more excited to get out on that field and push for silverware.”
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Mark Applegarth reacts as prop handed early 2027 return date
Knights head coach Mark Applegarth emphasized that English remains a core pillar of the club’s long-term vision despite his current injury setback:
“I’m over the moon to get Matty over the line because he’s a real quality player.”
“It was very unfortunate for Matty that he got injured coming on loan. We signed Matty with a long term vision and we think he’ll be a big part of York moving forward.”
“He’s due back the first two or three months of the season starting, so what a boost that’ll be.”
“He’s a quality person, a quality player and the sort of player that we want at York Knights to take us on this journey moving forward.”
