NRL 2020: Brisbane Broncos’ Herbie Farnworth chased by five clubs, rugby union
He famously knocked back Premier League giants Manchester United to pursue his rugby league dream but Broncos young gun Herbie Farnworth now faces an even tougher career choice.
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Herbie Farnworth has become one of the most sought-after players in Australian sport, with the Broncos young gun embroiled in a cross-code battle for his signature.
Once signed to soccer giant Manchester United as a 10-year-old, Farnworth is again in hot demand with the British Broncos ace fielding interest from Australian rugby provinces and five NRL rivals.
Farnworth is off-contract at season’s end and the Broncos are keen to retain the 20-year-old, who walked away from Man U – and a potential multimillion-dollar contract – to chase his dreams in rugby league.
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The England Youth team representative has made impressive strides at the Broncos, playing two games last season, including his debut against Cronulla, before appearing in the first two rounds this season.
A versatile utility back adept at wing, centre and fullback, Farnworth is one of Brisbane’s fastest players and has caught the eye of rugby and NRL scouts with his speed and brilliant goalkicking.
The Broncos have begun negotiations to keep Farnworth at Red Hill and coach Anthony Seibold is aware of interest in the backline flyer.
“We would like to get a deal done but we understand he has a fair bit of interest,” Seibold said.
“Pete Nolan (Broncos head of football) has worked hard with Herbie’s uncle (and manager, Wigan scouting legend Brian Foley) to keep him here.
“Brian brought Herbie here as a 14 or 15-year-old and he has been in the Broncos system for quite a few years.
“Herbie has made a lot of sacrifices to be over here away from his family as a young man and that shows his character.
“I’ve worked with Herbie for about 17 months now and he has a really determined attitude and a work ethic that is second to none.
“He has worked hard to get his opportunity in the NRL, so we have no plans to lose him.”
While Farnworth is a talent, the competition for backline spots at the Broncos is fierce.
Jamayne Isaako, Corey Oates and Jesse Arthars are ahead of Farnworth in the pecking order, while the Broncos have another outstanding wing or centre prospect coming through in Xavier Coates.
But Seibold insists Farnworth, who impressed at the NRL Nines in February, can enjoy a long career at the Broncos.
“Herbie has a huge future here and his next challenge is to cement a starting position,” he said.
“Darius Boyd will be retiring later this year, so that will open up another spot next year for younger guys like Herbie, Xavier Coates and Tesi Niu.
“I think Herbie’s best position is on the wing. He can play a utility role in the No.14 because he is so versatile, but I see him long term as an excellent winger.
“He is a great finisher and runs the ball with real intent, plus he can kick goals, so we want to keep him.”
Originally published as NRL 2020: Brisbane Broncos’ Herbie Farnworth chased by five clubs, rugby union