DEAN HOYLE today hammered out a top Huddersfield Town tonic by telling fans: “None of our top players will be sold during the January transfer window – under any circumstances.”
The owner-chairman’s pledge comes 24 hours ahead of the big Roses derby against Preston, when scouts are expected to flock to the Galpharm once again.
Scotland Under 21 hot shot Jordan Rhodes, who has fired 10 goals for club and country in his last four games, has been at the centre of speculation.
So too has Jack Hunt, the academy-produced right-back recently checked out by England Under 21 and newly-confirmed Olympic football team chief Stuart Pearce.
Meanwhile rumours are also rife over the future of winger Gary Roberts, who is out of contract at the end of the season and recently rejected a new deal.
Hoyle is keen to quash any speculation and ensure the focus remains firmly on second-paced Town’s push for promotion from League I.
Having spoken personally to all three players, he said: “As our fantastic form has progressed, the interest from the press and other clubs regarding our players has understandably increased.
“We’ve had an ever-increasing number of scouts visiting on match days, which in turn has led to speculation about the future of several of our players in the media.
“The early-season form of Jordan Rhodes and Jack Hunt has led to people speculating about their potential involvement in the Scotland senior squad and England Under 21s.
“And the fact that Gary Roberts is out of contract in the summer is also well known and has led to speculation surrounding his future.
“As a result, I personally spoke to each of these players individually earlier this week to clarify my, and the club’s, position.
“In each case, the players, without any question, affirmed their commitment to the club, manager, the fans and their teammates.
“At a time when players often are criticised for a lack of loyalty it was very refreshing and really shows the spirit in the camp. They all share a steely-eyed focus.
“All three, along with every other member of the squad, have done a great job so far this season – and we need them to continue that for the remainder of the campaign.
“As a result, none of the three will be sold during the January transfer window – under any circumstances.”
Hoyle added: “This won’t stop the speculation from outside.
“But it lets everyone around the club and squad know where we stand.
“Everyone at Huddersfield Town is fully focussed on what needs to be done on the pitch this season in order to get this club to the Championship.”
Manager Lee Clark hailed Hoyle’s message, saying: We’ve got a great squad of players and everyone will have a part to play this season.
“This commitment is yet another example of the fantastic backing I have received from the board of directors.
“Now we have quashed any speculation surrounding these players, we will focus on the football and look to continue the great form we have shown over the early stages of this season.”
