“I like the way the club is going” – Matty English commits to Huddersfield

Drew Darbyshire

Huddersfield prop Matty English has signed a new deal that will see him stay with his hometown club until the end of 2023.

The 23-year-old came through the academy ranks at the Giants and has made 70 appearances since making his first team debut in 217. He earned international honours with England Knights in 2019.

Huddersfield coach Ian Watson said: “It’s important we try to keep these guys, so to get Matty English to extend is a really big plus for us.

“The big thing from this season that’s been really pleasing has been the young players coming through. They’re getting a lot of game time and they’re getting games thick and fast. There are a lot of young guys in there, and Matty English is one of them.

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“Players learn by playing and Matty’s been playing lots of Super League games and he’s developing. Matty’s been central to everything we’ve been doing this year.

“We’re trying to bring in a mix of youth and experience to balance the side and help the younger players develop. We’ve seen what these younger guys can do, we want to develop them in the right way. You have to have a perfect balance and blend.”

English said: “I like the way the club is going. Ian Watson is bringing something new to the club. The club have made a bold statement and backed him to rebuild this side, and being part of the plans for that rebuild is something I really want to be involved in.

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“Ian Watson is so hands on, he lives and breathes rugby league. He’s really video orientated so he shows you how you can improve. He’s making sure we’re heading in the right direction.

“It’s pretty special for the academy boys who have come through the club together. Some of us did scholarship together, so we’ve been working and playing together for the best part of 10 years. It’s special to work and train together with mates you’ve known for years and I’m proud of how we’ve all come through the system together.”