Ben Barba has insisted he will not decide on his long-term future until the end of this season – saying his priority for now is helping deliver the Super League title to St Helens.
Intense speculation is linking Barba with a return to the NRL in 2019 following an incredible start to this season – despite him still having a year left on his contract with the Saints.
But the fullback has told League Express he is not worried about what happens next year just yet.
“The speculation is obviously pretty intense, and the honest answer right now is it’s a tough question to try and work out,” he said.
“There’s a lot going on, but I don’t want to think about that until the end of the season.
“It’s a massive decision – and there’s pressure from family in Australia who want you to come home. I won’t discuss it until way down the track. Right now it’s about getting St Helens to a few finals and winning some trophies with this great club.”
Barba also admitted his family’s happiness will play a part in any decision about going home – but said they are loving life in England.
“They love it here,” he said. My girls were on the field before the Wigan game doing cheerleading, and they’re busier than I am, which is a really good thing.
“If they’re happy, that’s the main thing – and they’re loving it right now. The club and the town have been so wonderful with my family: they’ve made us feel welcome and we’ll forever be grateful for that.”
