Watts looks forward to life after Hull FC

As Christmas approaches, most rugby league players are back in preseason training, preparing for the upcoming season.

- By MATT SHAW

Liam Watts in Hull FC colours last season

(ALEX WHITEHEAD/ SWPIX.COM)

But that does not apply to everyone. For a small number, their futures remain uncertain as they await the right move ahead of the 2026 season.

Among them is Liam Watts. The Super League stalwart is currently without a club, following his departure from Hull FC at the end of the season.

Now 35 and with 336 Super League appearances to his name, Watts wants to go around again. He has used his recent time wisely and is hopeful he has a job lined up away from the game, but there remains a plan to play next year.

"I got some funding from Rugby League Cares to put towards my driving course for HGVs," Watts said. "I've been doing that, and I actually passed my test last week, so I'm pretty over the moon with that.

"I've hopefully got a job for the start of January, so I'm just waiting about and taking every day as it comes, enjoying some downtime.

"I knew last year it was going to be my last year full-time, then I went to Hull and got a new lease of life. Unfortunately, I got a couple of injuries which I've never really had in my career, but it meant I could put things in place, reach out to a few people while also training hard to recover and get fit."

Despite plans beyond rugby being down the track, Watts remains enthused about playing again.