Giants' Crabtree signs new deal

Crabtree is one of Super League's most recognisable players

Huddersfield forward Eorl Crabtree has signed a new three-year contract, keeping him at the club until the end of the 2010 season.

The 24-year-old has been at the club for seven years, and has made nine appearances for England.

"I love this club, so why would I want to leave? I'm flattered when I'm linked with other clubs, but that's as far as it goes," said Crabtree.

"I know it's going to get even bigger and better here in the years ahead."

Crabtree, the nephew of famous wrestler Big Daddy, is the tallest man in Super League at 6ft 5in and played a key role in England's Federation Shield success last year.

"This is my seventh season at the Giants, and this is the best it's ever been - the camaraderie is brilliant," added Crabtree.

It is a statement of intent from this club Giants coach Jon Sharp

After a nightmare start to the season, Huddersfield have won nine matches in a row to climb to fourth in the table and take a place in the last eight of the Challenge Cup.

"I've always been proud to play for my hometown club, and I'm proud of what the Giants are achieving in Super League right now," he said.

"That certainly made my decision to stay so much easier."

Giants coach Jon Sharp added: "It is a statement of intent from this club in keeping hold of its best players.

"It sends out a signal to our fans that we are keen on building and progressing and have ambitions to become one of the big clubs and Eorl is an integral part of those plans."