LIONS CONFIRM THREE DEPARTURES

The club would like to confirm three departures from the Lions’ Den – two from the playing squad, together with a well-respected member of the back room team.

Welsh international half-back Danny Ansell, French forward Omer Djalout and Strength and Conditioning Coach Mike Hughes will leave the club with immediate effect.

Half-back Danny Ansell, who played at the 2017 Rugby League World Cup for Wales, joined the Lions squad from Hunslet during pre-season and made one league appearance against Toulouse Olympique. Head Coach Stuart Littler explained his departure stating, “By mutual agreement with Danny Ansell we have decided to part company. Unfortunately Danny was struggling with the travelling required from Yorkshire, which of course included meeting all of our training commitments.

“This was partly due to an increased workload within his employment. As a coach I pride myself on the welfare of our staff and it was agreed to mutually end Danny’s contract at our club. We wish Danny well in the future with both his work as well as his Rugby should he decide to play on at another club

Also departing is French forward Omer Djalout, who had previously played for Catalans Dragons and Sheffield Eagles but failed to make a single league appearance for the club. Littler confirmed, “He has also left the club having not been able to secure any substantial employment to support his Rugby at Swinton. As a part-time club our players all have alternative employment, so this made things difficult for Omer. He was also a touch home sick and he has therefore decided to return to France. We wish him well in his future.”

On the much-loved Mike Hughes leaving the club after joining the backroom staff with the Lions late in the 2017 season, Littler said “Finally, in what was a huge shock to myself and the club, our brilliant strength and conditioner Mike has been offered a fantastic business opportunity away from Rugby. This was a chance Mike couldn’t turn down and sadly it wasn’t possible to fit his new responsibilities in alongside his club duties.

“Mike has been a breath of fresh air throughout his time with us and he is much loved by the boys. I am very grateful for the job Mike has done and fully respect his decision as a friend. These things happen in part time Rugby League and as a club we must now move on. Thanks for everything Hughesie and the best of luck with the new business venture.”

Chairman Andy Mazey concluded, “ On behalf of the Board I can only echo Stuart’s words. We would like to thank Mike for the amazing work he has done for our club, and along with Danny and Omer we wish all three lads all the very best for the future. We are currently working on replacements and our fans will be updated again as soon as possible.”