England Knights star commits long-term future to Huddersfield

Huddersfield have tied down England Knights prop Matty English to a new three-year deal, keeping him at the club until at least the end of 2026.

The 25-year-old has made 94 appearances for the Giants since making his first team debut back in 2017.

English, who is nicknamed The Polar Bear, won international honours with England Knights in 2019 and 2022.

Wakefield-born English is one of many homegrown players currently in Huddersfield’s first team. Giants legend Jermaine McGillvary recently made his 300th appearance for the club, and that’s a milestone English is looking to reach.

English said: “It’s crazy, I spoke to my mum and dad about it, when I signed it was very much ‘well, the Giants is where you’re starting off but who knows where you’ll end up’ – but I’m still here!

“I signed eight years ago and I am still here. It was massive milestone for him (McGillvary) and if I can get anywhere near that I’d be honoured.”

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Huddersfield coach delighted to secure long-term services of Matty English

English has become a key player in Ian Watson’s forward pack, playing 22 games in 2022.

Watson said: “Matty is a brilliant lad, and a vital part of this club.

“He works hard and is a core member of the team dynamic. He is a big player for the Giants and has no limit to what he can achieve at this club.”

English scored his first try for the Giants in a Challenge Cup tie against Wakefield in 2018.

Ian Watson provides further details on McGillvary injury

Huddersfield coach Ian Watson has provided an update on winger Jermaine McGillvary, who has dropped out of his 21-man squad for their home game with Castleford on Friday night.

McGillvary, 34, has featured in both the side’s games so far this season. However, he misses out for Friday’s fixture due to a hamstring injury.

“He’s has got a little bit of a tweak on his hamstring again,” Watson explained.

“He comes out, and it should only be a short one to be fair.

“It’s nothing major, he just felt it tighten up in the game last week. He’s not run at all with us this week, so he’s not available to play.

“We don’t know how long that will be, but it’s nothing major. It’s more of a tightening more than anything else.”

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