BALLARAT Red Devils coach James Robinson says it is almost certain star English import Danny O’Donnell will remain at the club in 2015.
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In addition to the imminent re-signing of O’Donnell, Robinson also hinted another international import would be brought in to fill the void left by key striker Paul Harvey.
O’Donnell, a former Liverpool footballer, came to the club in the early 2014 National Premier League Victoria season and was one of the Reds’ best players throughout the year.
He has signalled his intention to remain in Ballarat for the 2015 season; the finer details of his visa documents just need to be sorted. “We’re 95 per cent there with Danny, so it’s just making sure the details are done,” Robinson said.
“Like we saw, Danny affected the environment both on and off the park. Danny’s experience that he brought to the club that was just fantastic.”
The Reds will without doubt be on the lookout for a key striker after Harvey and Deng Aquek, both key attackers, left the club to play in Melbourne.
Midfielder Sean Harding has pursued a career in New Zealand, while defender Steven Thompson is also on the way out.
“Paul was a great player since he came across half-way through the season, he found the back of the net which we wanted,” Robinson said.
“It opens the door for somebody else and it frees one more visa spot ... we’ve got the chance to bring somebody in from overseas.”
The under-20 and junior trials will be held at Morshead Park this weekend and all interested players are asked to contact Robinson on jamesr@ballaratreddevils.com.au