Gareth Widdop has dismissed suggestions he asked to be released from his contract with St. George Illawarra Dragons so he can pursue a move to Super League.

Reports in Australia suggested Widdop was keen to call time on his time in the NRL despite having three seasons left on his contract with the Dragons.

A number of Super League sides have been linked with the England international, but Widdop has no intention of returning home just yet and is keen to "put to bed" the rumours.

"At some point in my career I'd like to go back to England at some point. When that will be, I'm not too sure," he told reporters.

"I'm here for this year, I'm committed to the Dragons. I have a contract till 2021, so that's where we're at at the moment, there's nothing else to speculate on.

"I want to put to bed that I haven't asked a release for 2019. To all the members, fans and the little kids out there, I understand my importance to this team and my position as the captain and leader of this club. I will be here in 2019 and can't wait for the season to start.

"There's no secret I have aspirations of going over to the UK and playing. It's something I've always wanted to do. I have a good relationship with the club and so when the time is right we'll work together."

Widdop has played his entire career in NRL after moving to Australia as a youngster, representing the Melbourne Storm before moving to the Dragons in 2014.

He has scored 848 points in 115 matches for the Dragons, including 205 last season as St. George reached the NRL semi-finals before losing to South Sydney Rabbitohs.