Sheffield Eagles hopeful over new city home

Sheffield Eagles remain optimistic over securing a venue within the Steel City, but confirm talks have been held over a prospective ground-share with Wakefield.
Mark AstonMark Aston
Mark Aston

The Eagles have been seeking a temporary venue for the 2017 campaign, as they wait for the completion of their potential long-term home at the Olympic Legacy Park.

Director of rugby Mark Aston appealed for the help of both Sheffield Wednesday and United as they look to remain within the city, and the Eagles have also explored the possibility of returning to Doncaster or nearby Dewsbury.

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Now Aston says Super League side Wakefield are ‘open’ to the possibility of helping, but using one, or both, of Sheffield’s football clubs remains first choice.

“We are hoping to have an announcement by next week,” Aston told The Star.

“We are talking to a couple of people. We are getting positive vibes and we want to stay in the city.

“We do have an option outside of the city, but we are still fighting to remain in Sheffield.

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“They (football clubs) have been supportive so we are still on with those discussions.

“We have spoken to Wakefield. They are open to it. But there are a few clubs we have spoken to.”

An agreement with a new ‘sponsor’ who will fund the club is not yet over the line, but Aston expects a deal to be concluded shortly.

Meanwhile, prop Adam Neal has rejoined Oldham on a two-year deal after ending his contract early with the Eagles.

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Neal becomes the first of last season’s contracted regulars to exercise the option of leaving the club, following the Eagles’ decision to give players the chance to seek employment elsewhere during their off- field uncertainty.

Aston said: “He has had a go at full-time and he has been great, but for his long-term future, with a job offer to go back to, he decided the travelling was too much.

“He is the only one at the moment out of the group we already have signed. It is sad but I understand his decision.”