Huddersfield hooker Shaun Lunt has quashed rumours that he is set to leave the Giants by promising to see out the remainder of his contract.
The 27-year-old, who returned from a two-month lay-off to inspire Huddersfield to victory over Wakefield in round 23, says reports linking him with a move to Hull KR and Leeds Rhinos are nothing more than “silly rumours”.
This article originally appeared in this week’s edition of League Express newspaper. Click here to download the digital version to your computer, smartphone or tablet
“I’ve always been committed to the Giants,” Lunt told League Express.
“I’ve been injured and people have been putting two and two together and coming up with silly rumours. Many have thought there has been an upset at the club, but that is far from the truth. My contract with the Giants is due to expire at the end of 2015 and I plan to see it out.”
As for his plans once the deal runs out, Lunt isn’t so certain.
“I haven’t decided what I am going to do yet,” he admitted.
“I will sit down with my manager and see what my options are and take it from there.
“When my contract runs out that will have been my seventh season, so add an extra three and I potentially get a testimonial.
“I haven’t ruled out anything regarding where I could end up playing when my contract ends. It could be in Super League and it could be in the NRL – I’m keeping my options open.”
Click here to download the latest issue of Rugby League World magazine to your computer, smartphone or tablet
Prior to the calf injury that sidelined him for eight weeks, Lunt had been displaying form that many thought merited a call-up to Steve McNamara’s England squad for this autumn’s Four Nations.
“I would love to play for England – who wouldn’t,” he said.
“I feel I have performed well this year and I would love to be considered.”
The Cumbrian realises he faces tough competition for the number nine shirt, though.
“In England we have some very good number nines, so we will just have to wait and see who gets the nod,” added Lunt.
“The top hookers this year have their own style of play and are stronger in certain areas. James Roby and Daryl Clark are lightning fast around the ruck, while Michael McIlorum is tough and aggressive. Then you’ve got Danny Houghton and Josh Hodgson, who get through a real workload.
“They’ve all had great seasons so far and Steve McNamara has a tough decision to make. It’s a good problem to have, though.”
