York Knights have signed prop Matty English on loan from Huddersfield Giants until the end of the season, with the deal confirmed on 29 July 2026. BBC Sport reported the move, which gives the 28-year-old a fresh chance to play regular first-team rugby league after a difficult year.

English is a Huddersfield academy product who spent ten seasons with the Giants, making his debut in 2017 and racking up 157 appearances for the club. But Huddersfield decided not to offer him a new contract, and his existing deal was set to expire at the end of the current campaign. BBC Sport

A prop forward — the front-row position responsible for the heavy, close-range carrying and tackling that sets the platform for a team's attack — English has had a frustrating 2026. In March, BBC Sport reported that he faced a lengthy spell on the sidelines due to injury, and back in January he told the BBC he was open to offers from rival Super League clubs as his future at Huddersfield became uncertain. BBC Sport

The loan to York is not his first temporary move. English previously spent a short-term loan spell with Castleford Tigers, where he made his debut against Wigan Warriors. Huddersfield Giants Love Rugby League were first to report that English was set to leave Huddersfield and link up with York, with the Knights themselves confirming the signing on social media. Love Rugby League York RLFC, Facebook

Andy Kelly, involved in the arrangement, stated that English was allowed to explore the loan in order to get more game time. BBC Sport For a player who has given a decade of service to one club, the opportunity to play regularly — and to put himself in the shop window — matters. English also has a testimonial game scheduled, with tickets already on sale, a recognition of his long-standing contribution to the Giants. Instagram

For York Knights, acquiring a prop with 157 senior appearances and a decade of Super League experience is a useful addition as they push through the closing weeks of the season. For English, it is a chance to rebuild momentum after injury and contractual uncertainty — and to remind clubs, in both codes and at every level, that there is still plenty of rugby left in him.