EARLIER in the year, League Express revealed that Elie El-Zakhem was contemplating an exit from Castleford Tigers to return home.
That wasn’t well received by the Castleford faithful who held the Lebanese international in high regard due to his strike rate out wide.
However, El-Zakhem was amongst the nine departures listed as leaving The Jungle earlier this month, confirming League Express‘ initial revelation.
So, why did the 26-year-old up sticks and leave Castleford just a year into his two-year contract at the club and would he ever return?
“I left the club just because I was just homesick to be honest,” El-Zakhem told League Express.
“I left on good terms with the club and they respected my decision when I asked for a release.
“I haven’t ruled out coming back to play in the UK and I would definitely be open to it but my main priority now is finding a club in Australia closer to home.
“That’s something I haven’t been able to do yet.”
What did El-Zakhem think of his time in West Yorkshire?
“I found my time at Castleford went pretty well but it had its ups and downs which is just like any club really.
“It was obviously better when we were competing and winning a few games, but it was disappointing to end the season how we did.”
All in all, El-Zakhem registered 26 appearances for the Tigers during his solitary season at The Jungle, scoring two tries.
Click here to get the digital edition of League Express
Click here to subscribe to the print edition of League Express
League Express is also widely available from local newsagents across the north of England.
