Houghton committed to Hull until 2017

Hull hooker Danny Houghton has signed a new five-year contract with the club.

Houghton, 23, who was Super League‘s top tackler last season, was still under contract at the KC Stadium, but now commits until the end of 2017.

He said: “I’m really settled here, it’s my home-town club, we’ve just started a family and I just love playing for the club.

“People often ask me about my ambitions personally and hopes to play for England, but I believe that will all take care of itself by being part of a club that now has big ambitions and intentions to really make a significant challenge in the league and cup. 

“We’re all aware as players as to what the club wants to achieve and the changes that have been made and if I am playing well in a winning team, then hopefully I can kick on for England too. 

“I’m learning a lot from the coaching staff and the players around me and hopefully they can see I’m making a difference to the team as well.” 

He added, “It’s a really exciting time for everyone at the club, none more so than big matches like this weekend, so I wouldn’t want to be anywhere else.” 

Houghton has made 138 appearances in the black and white since making his debut as an 18-year-old back in 2007.

Head coach Peter Gentle said: “He is without doubt a future international at the highest level and he must be very close to receiving a call-up to the full England squad.

“That is why we want to keep him here, he is one of the country’s brightest talents and players like that don’t crop up everyday. 

“Already we’re seeing the benefit of his experience in the younger players in the squad, whilst I’m sure he’ll be a candidate for Hull FC captain in years to come.”