Theo Fages reveals relief following Ian Watson’s new Huddersfield contract

Theo Fages says he was “buzzing” when he found out head coach Ian Watson had signed his long-term future with Huddersfield Giants.

Watson, 45, admitted that agents had contacted him about any interest in an NRL move, although no club actually came forward with an offer from Down Under.

However, the former Salford boss committed his long-term future with a deal until at least the end of 2026 in the hope of building a legacy at the John Smith’s Stadium. 

Fages says he was delighted to hear that his head coach had re-signed with the club, having been one of the main reasons he made the move initially from St Helens.

Theo Fages: ‘He was a big reason why I signed’

Fages told Love Rugby League: “I was buzzing with that [his new deal]. I signed here and he was a big reason why I signed. 

“I didn’t want him to leave and all the boys are the same.  

“I’m glad that he’s staying for a while. We can build on what he’s trying to already do and I’m looking forward to the next few years. 

“For me, he’s one of the best [coaches I’ve had]. He’s just a good coach and good with the boys. 

“The way he is with us, he makes you want to play for him. 

“What he’s achieving as well it’s just a testament to himself really. 

“I feel sorry for him that we didn’t win the Challenge Cup and he hasn’t won one yet. But we’re working hard for it and it would be good to get a trophy for him.”

Huddersfield face St Helens on Friday night in Round 19 of the Super League season live on Sky Sports. 

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