Workington Town hooker Declan O’Donnell has joined League One strugglers Oldham Roughyeds for a month’s loan.
O’Donnell, 23, has had injury issues this season after re-joining Town when he had previously signed for London Broncos.
It was the second time that Town coach Chris Thorman had signed the Wigan-born forward and he feels the Irish international is in need of game time before returning to Championship action.
Oldham coach Stuart Littler said: “Dec will be a great addition to our squad. He’s been at a lot of good clubs, including Wigan and Leigh, and I’d personally like to thank everyone up in Cumbria for their help and co-operation in this.
“Dec will bring a lot to the party. I known him well as a former Ireland coach and he has a high skill set, a great work ethic and a terrific attitude.
“He’s been in international camps and he’s keen to get back playing with us, albeit on a loan basis.”
O’Donnell was initially due to play for Ottawa in 2021, but he returned to Workington instead when the Canadian outfit deferred their entry to League One and chose instead to take over the Hemel franchise and set up in Cornwall.
O’Donnell said: “I’m looking forward to the Oldham challenge. I know Stu from our Ireland days – h gave me my first cap and I know Martyn Ridyard well from when I was at Leigh.
“I know Calvin Wellington as well because we shared a house in Workington, so I’ve already got a lot of connections at Oldham.
“I’ve been pout injured but I’m fully fit and raring to go now and I can’t tell you how much I’m looking forward to getting back into the game again.”
O’Donnell played for Wigan St Pat’s as a youngster before joining the Wigan Academy before Leigh, Workington, London Broncos, then Workington again.
He is expected to be in contention for Sunday’s home game against Midlands Hurricanes at the Vestacare Stadium.
