Crabtree: Huddersfield more important than England

Giant prop Eorl Crabtree has responded positively to his World Cup snub and claims that club is more important than country.

Crabtree, 31, says he will use the summer as a chance to prepare thoroughly for the 2014 season, as his Huddersfield side look to defend their League Leaders Shield.

After being named in the Super League Dream Team, Crabtree was widely expected to be named in Steve McNamara’s 24-man England squad, but instead there was a surprise call-up for inexperienced South Sydney forward Tom Burgess.

So while Tom joins his twin George and older brother Sam in the squad, Crabtree is left to hope for a media role this Autumn.

In an interview with the Huddersfield Daily Examiner, Crabtree said, “You obviously love representing your country, and I do find it a little ironic that after representing England at so many World Cup events this year I’ve been cast aside.

“But I’ve got used to these sort of setbacks, and I’m already seeing there’s a silver lining to all this.

“What I now intend to do is have minor clean-up operations on an elbow and ankle, take a holiday and make sure I’m firing for the start of pre-season.

“Although playing for England is special, playing for Huddersfield Giants is far more important.”

Crabtree has a total of 12 England caps to his name, including appearances at the 2009 and 2010 Four Nations tournaments.