Rugby: Paul plays down England Rugby Union talk

Bradford Bulls’ Kiwi cracker Henry Paul, the subject of a three-way tussle for his services, today warned he will not be rushed into making a decision on his future.

The 27-year-old New Zealand international, who is out of contract in November, is said to be high on the wanted list of England rugby union coach Clive Woodward, who has instructed the RFU to table a five-year deal worth almost stg£1million.

Paul, however, played down speculation that he is set to follow in the footsteps of Jason Robinson.

‘‘Me and my brother are applying for British passports to enable us to get in and out of the country and they’ve put two and two together,’’ he said.

‘‘I have said that I will consider playing for an English rugby union club because I will go with the best offer on the table. There’s nothing on paper yet.’’

Bradford chairman Chris Caisley rubbished today’s reports, saying: ‘‘We keep getting this every year but I am not concerned at all. Henry is perfectly happy at Bradford and I have no doubt that he will be with us next year.

‘‘We have got something special going at Bradford and Henry is one of the first to recognise that.’’

Paul, man of the match in Bradford’s Challenge Cup success last April, admits he has three options.

The brilliant stand-off, who has played in English rugby league for the last eight years, has made no secret of his desire to try his luck in Australia and has already spoken to two NRL clubs.

He had a short-term rugby union stint alongside Robinson at Bath in 1996 and will not rule out a permanent move to the 15-a-side code.

‘‘My manager is sounding everyone out,’’ he said. ‘‘He’s doing his job and finding the best deal. There is no pressure on me, I’m just enjoying my rugby.

‘‘It’s flattering but I won’t rule out anything. It’s my job to look after myself.

‘‘I’m happy with Bradford and they’re tabling something at the moment. There’s been a great buzz here over the last three years and there’s a few years left in this team.

‘‘Bradford are dead keen for me to work something out. Them and Auckland were my two big hopes but things seem to be fading quickly at Auckland.

‘‘I’ve never kept it a secret that I’d like to have a go in Aussie and I’ve talked to a couple of clubs. I’m at the age now that I’m probably at my peak so I want to get in there.

Paul’s younger brother Robbie, the Bradford captain, signed a new three-year deal last season and the former Wigan ace admitted that that would be another factor to consider when he finally makes his mind up.