York City Knights hand Australian halfback a one-year deal

Brendan O’Hagan has signed a new one-year deal with the York City Knights.

22-year-old O’Hagan joined the club ahead of the 2021 campaign but, after a strong start in the early season Betfred Challenge Cup, the halfback missed much of the year through a series of hip issues.

This off-season, however, has seen O’Hagan head to London to see a highly regarded consultant orthopaedic hip surgeon, in the UK and, with the operation paid for the club now complete, the former Canberra man is now recovering before beginning his rehabilitation programme ahead of the 2022 campaign.

On the retention, Head Coach James Ford praised O’Hagan and looked forward to a big 2022 for the former Newcastle Knights, Canberra Raiders and Wests Tigers man.

“I’m really pleased to re-sign Brendan,” he said. “He has a great understanding of the game and demonstrated his ability at times last season.

“Despite missing almost all preseason with a freak injury Brendan started the season in awesome form. It was difficult for him to deal with numerous setbacks, especially at such a young age.

“Those experiences will make him stronger and I’m excited by the competition we have in the half-back positions this year.”

O’Hagan himself admitted he was delighted to be staying at the club and noted that he is keen to repay the fans’ faith in him.

“I’m really excited to be staying at the club and I’m happy that the club has shown this faith in me by offering me a deal, so I’m really looking forward to a big 2022.

“The fans are massive for the club and they have been for me, as well. You see on social media and at the games how passionate they are and it’s obviously been a tough year for me so I can’t wait to get back out there and repay the faith they have shown in me.