‘I’ve got to be paid what I’m worth’ – Courtney Lawes on Saints future
Courtney Lawes in action during Northampton Saints vs Sale Sharks, cinch Stadium at Franklin's Gardens, Northampton
Courtney Lawes has expressed his desire to remain at Northampton Saints beyond this season, but only if the price is right.
The veteran forward is off-contract at the end of the current campaign and is entertaining offers from French clubs.
“I took a decent pay cut last year”
He has reportedly visited two Pro D2 sides’ facilities in recent weeks but could still remain in the Premiership and extend his 17-year stint at Northampton if he receives an attractive offer.
“We’re in talks. I want to say you’ve got to keep your options open, especially at this point in my career. This will probably be my last contract. You’ve got to do what’s best for your family,” Lawes told TNT Sports.
“I took a decent pay cut last year to stay here because I wasn’t happy with leaving on a season like that. I’ve got to be paid what I’m worth. I’m very hopeful that it’ll work out.”
Lawes was a standout performer for England during the 2023 Rugby World Cup, which ultimately proved to be his final tournament of international rugby as he hung up his Test boots.
He has not let his standards drop since as he continues to churn out high-quality performances for his club.
“I’m here to win. I’m here to be the best, and I’m here to do my best for the team,” he added.
Making his family proud
Lawes adds that Northampton will always be his home but that he needs to look after his family.
“You play rugby because you love it, but you also play rugby because you earn money from it, and you’ve got to provide for your family,” he said.
“Ultimately, to leave a legacy behind you that hopefully one day when your kids are sat in the sun, they can be somewhat proud of you.
“This is my home, and regardless of what happens, I’ll always end up back here.”
Lawes played 105 Test matches for England and retired from international rugby as the fifth-most capped men’s player for his country.
He represented England at four Rugby World Cups and won three Six Nations titles, including a Grand Slam in 2016.
He also toured with the British and Irish Lions in 2017 and 2021, featuring in five Test matches.
READ MORE: England forward announces shock retirement on eve of Six Nations
