Rugby League News: Olly Russell Eyed for Loan Move as Huddersfield Giants Future Uncertain
According to Love Rugby League, Huddersfield Giants half-back Olly Russell could be set to head out on loan in search of regular playing time, with Hull FC among the clubs monitoring his availability.
Russell’s long-term future appears to be nearing a resolution, with Wakefield Trinity rumored to have made a move for the half-back for the 2025 season and beyond, as they prepare for a potential return to Super League.
In the short term, however, Russell may be allowed to leave Huddersfield on a temporary basis. The Giants were reluctant to let him go before the Challenge Cup semi-finals, but with the team now out of the competition, he may be granted the opportunity to get more minutes elsewhere.
Russell has not featured for Huddersfield since Round 5 of the Super League season, having played in all five of the Giants’ opening games. Coach Ian Watson has since preferred the half-back pairing of Tui Lolohea and the ever-present Adam Clune, leaving Russell’s immediate future at the club uncertain.
Hull FC are reportedly one of the clubs keeping a close eye on Russell’s situation, as they have faced numerous issues with their own half-backs throughout the 2024 season. Nu Brown and Morgan Smith started the year as the club’s half-back pairing, but Smith has since reverted to a utility role, while Brown has left the club and returned to the NRL.
The timely return of Jake Trueman from long-term injury has provided a boost for Hull FC, with Trueman partnering young pivot Jack Charles in the halves in recent weeks. However, the potential addition of Olly Russell on loan could further strengthen their options in the pivotal half-back positions.
While Russell’s long-term future appears to lie with Wakefield, a temporary loan move could provide him with the regular game-time he needs to maintain his sharpness and showcase his abilities before a permanent departure from the Huddersfield Giants at the end of the 2024 season.
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