Pushing for another contract: Konrad Hurrell on his St Helens future

Tonga powerhouse Konrad Hurrell is in the final year of his contract with Super League champions St Helens, and there’s nowhere else he’d rather be.

The 31-year-old centre joined the Saints ahead of last season from Leeds. He quickly became a fan favourite, making 27 appearances to help St Helens win their fourth Super League title in a row.

Hurrell initially joined Saints on a one-year deal before later signing a 12-month extension for 2023.

“I’ll have to speak to my manager and stop with the one-year deals and hopefully push for a three-year deal so I can stay here!” Hurrell told Love Rugby League with a smile on his face.

“I’m pushing for another contract. It’s tougher coming in this year because I know everyone is fit this year. I’m in the same situation this year, fighting for a spot. Hopefully there are no injuries and hopefully I can get a shot at centre.”

Why would you want to leave?

St Helens have enjoyed plenty of success in the Super League era, with Hurrell questioning why anyone would ever want to leave the champion club.

“I feel like that’s why people have been here more than 10 years,” he added.

“I know sometimes money comes with that to leave, but if you’re winning every week, money will come in later.

“Percy (Mark Percival) and big Al (Walmsley) has played 10 years and Robes (James Roby) has played 20 years. I think that’s why this team is so great.

“Rushy (Mike Rush) knows how to keep players and knows how to talk to players and manage them.

“I don’t think anyone here would want to leave this club and if you’re winning, why would you want to leave?”

Konrad Hurrell on the GOAT

St Helens captain James Roby is about his 20th season with his hometown club after signing a one-year extension last season.

And Hurrell says the 37-year-old is still the best English hooker in the game.

“I’ve never seen anybody play for 20 years and still be at this level,” Hurrell acknowledged.

“Without disrespecting other hookers, I feel like he England’s number one hooker, he still should’ve played (at the World Cup).

“I don’t know how he does it. It’s funny seeing him at training, he looks like an old man then he puts his boots on and it’s like ‘what are you on, man? I want what you have’. That’s why he’s the GOAT and he is St Helens.”

St Helens face Penrith Panthers in the World Club Challenge on February 18.

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