Zak Hardaker has reiterated his desire to secure a long-term deal with Leeds Rhinos. The England international is currently on a short-term deal at Headingley until the end of the season, but admitted to Rugby League Live there have been 'little dialogues' about what happens in 2023.
But in terms of his own position, Hardaker stressed that with him settled in West Yorkshire and close to his young family once again after spending time at Wigan Warriors, he is keen to remain a Rhino. "I've no stress in my life right now, I just turn up for training and have a smile on my face," he said.
"I'd like to stay, yes. I've not had much conversations with Rohan (Smith) about it yet, though we've had little dialogues about what the future might look like. But I think that'll probably come with conversations with Gary (Hetherington).
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"I would be interested in staying, because it's just so much easier being back at home. But that's a bridge to cross when we have discussions. For me, like I've always said before, I'm happy being close to my family."
Hardaker continued: "People gave me stick before when I said how far away I was from home, but my surroundings now are familiar to me and that familiarity, I've really missed it. I'm happy, I know what's happening with my life and I'm settled at Leeds."
Hardaker also admitted he has enjoyed working with Leeds head coach Rohan Smith since the pair arrived at Headingley around the same time.
"He's brilliant," Hardaker said. "The lads who've been here before me say he's like a breath of fresh air, and he's great at putting some confidence into us as a team. He's a real relaxed coach, and I'm really enjoying working under him."
