September 05, 2008

TROUBLED half-back Todd Carney says he's looking forward to a "fresh start" after officially signing with Super League club Huddersfield.

The former Canberra playmaker has penned a three-year deal with the Giants, but it includes a get-out clause that would allow him to return to the NRL in 2010.

Carney, who was sacked by the Raiders and deregistered by the NRL last month after repeated off-field misdemeanours, said he was looking forward to moving on from his troubles.

"I see this move as a fresh start for me away from the issues in the NRL and I can't wait to get cracking," Carney said.

"I asked my manager (David Riolo) to get me to a club that can win things and the ambition shown by Huddersfield has convinced me that they can do just that.

"I would like to thank the club for having the confidence in me and I look forward to repaying that on and off the field for them and getting back into training and playing the game I love."

Carney will link up with outgoing St George Illawarra coach Nathan Brown, who reportedly played a role in luring the 22-year-old to Huddersfield.

The Giants beat off several other clubs to secure Carney's signature, including Wigan where he was touted as a potential replacement for Trent Barrett.

"We were in the market for a half-back and to get the lad that I believe is an outstanding talent is a massive boost to the club," Brown said.

"Such is his standing in the game that I believe he had his pick of most of the teams in the competition."

Carney will also link up with Wests Tigers veteran Brett Hodgson at the club next season.

NRL chief executive David Gallop has said he would be willing to consider re-registering Carney for 2010 if he proves he has moved on from his troubles.

Manly and Penrith were among the NRL teams reported to be interested in signing him.

Huddersfield managing director Richard Thewlis moved to calm Giants fans about the get-out clause.

"I realise that people will ask about the get-out clauses that the media seem to like to highlight and would remind all our supporters that those basically are included at the player's request in case they don't settle," he said.

"Moving 12,000 miles is a pretty daunting experience for anyone and what we must do as a club and indeed as supporters is welcome this young man with open arms."