We’re not in the habit of letting our best players go: Warrington boss discusses future of George Williams

Daryl Powell insists that Warrington will do all they can to retain George Williams beyond his current contract following speculation linking the in-form playmaker with a move back to the NRL. 

Williams, 28, has been in top form in 2023, helping Warrington to an unbeaten start with a record of seven wins to sit at the top of the Super League table.

The England international, who also stood out at the recent World Cup on home soil, has produced 10 assists this season, scoring twice himself in seven appearances.

That has prompted speculation linking the half-back with a return to the NRL, having featured for Canberra Raiders between 2020-21 before returning to Super League with Warrington.

Wests Tigers are believed to be interested in the two-time Grand Final winner, although it has previously been reported that Williams rejected a move ahead of 2023.

Warrington recently released forward Thomas Mikaele on compassionate grounds, having made his final appearance against Hull at the Halliwell Jones Stadium.

He has signed a deal with Gold Coast Titans in the NRL.

Williams’ current contract runs until the end of 2024, and Powell insists that he is not interested in losing his star performer.

Daryl Powell: We want to keep George Williams at the club

“He’s contracted to us for this year and next year. 100% we want to keep George Williams at the club,” Powell said.

“He’s a phenomenal player and why would you want to do anything different.

“There’s a real commitment from the club that we keep George long-term and it’s something that we’ll be working on.

“Thomas Mikaele is a slightly different example.

“His family is struggling, he needs to go back on compassionate grounds.

“We’re not in the habit of letting our best players go.

“We want to be building the best squad in the competition and maintaining that.”

Williams keeping options open

Previously speaking to Jenna Brooks on Sky Sports, Williams insisted he is keeping his options open and has not ruled out a potential return Down Under.

Williams was a part of the Canberra side that reached the semi-finals in 2020, falling to a 30-10 defeat to eventual winners Melbourne, and was later released the following May on compassionate grounds.

Williams said: “I’m not too sure what will happen in the future, I’m really enjoying my time at Warrington, I’ll definitely be here this year and next year, I’m really enjoying it.

“The fan base have been unbelievable in the last six weeks, and who knows what will happen in the future.

“I definitely wouldn’t write it off. You’ve got to explore your options, but I’ve got 18 months left on my contract, we’ll see what the future holds.”

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