Huddersfield reject approach for Luke O’Donnell

Huddersfield have rejected a bid from Sydney Roosters for back-rower Luke O’Donnell.

O’Donnell, 32, is in his third season at the John Smith’s Stadium, and was subject of a proposed swap deal, which was heavily reported Down Under.

Giants Managing Director Richard Thewlis said: “Our Head Coach Paul Anderson was contacted by the Roosters suggesting a swap deal involving Luke O’Donnell but none of the options presented to us were deemed satisfactory. 

“We of course informed Luke personally as these things seem to have ways of leaking out and he is very comfortable with our actions in respect of what occurred.

“He remains a Giant and will face London Broncos on Sunday at the John Smith’s Stadium (ko 3pm) which is where all of our energies are focused and not in expanding upon potentially destabilising player movement rumours. 

“It is particularly disappointing that the O’Donnell Sydney reporting has taken the focus away from what was a magnificent opening for our club by winning at St Helens for the first time in 35 years and in a manner that was so eye-catching.”

Australian O’Donnell, who has previously played for Wests Tigers and North Queensland Cowboys in the NRL, has been restricted to just 26 appearances for the Giants in two injury-hit seasons to date.