Swans rule out Lovett
07/10/2008 7:06 PM
Sydney has ruled itself out of the race for Essendon speedster Andrew Lovett.
The Swans informed the Bombers on Tuesday they were no longer interested in securing 25-year-old Lovett, who has played 66 games and won the 2005 Anzac Day Medal for being best afield against Collingwood in the annual blockbuster at the MCG.
It is believed the Swans had concerns over Lovett's attitude leaving the future of a player who was twice suspended by the Bombers for disciplinary reasons this season up in the air although it is believed Geelong may still be interested in securing the talented Bomber.
The future of Sydney star Ryan O'Keefe also remains clouded after day two of the AFL's annual trade week - with no deals yet completed ahead of Friday's 2pm deadline.
While Hawthorn, which met with O'Keefe's management on Tuesday, is still believed to be leading the race for the 27-year-old forward - the Hawks are wavering over whether to offer their first round pick in exchange for a player who was nominated for this year's All-Australian team.
Given O'Keefe, who finished fifth in the Swans' best and fairest this season and equal second in their 2006 club champion award, is clearly the best player on offer in this year's trade period, the Swans remain adamant only a first round draft pick will be enough to secure him.
However while the Hawks were believed to be keen to offer their first pick - selection 16 overall plus a player - in exchange for O'Keefe on Monday, the Swans were yet to receive a formal offer on Tuesday and believe the Hawks have gone cold about being willing to give up their first round pick for a player who turns 28 in January.
Several other clubs are also believed to still be interested in O'Keefe including Carlton despite the Blues ruling themselves out earlier in the week because of their refusal to give up their first selection - pick six overall - to secure O'Keefe, who is keen to finish his AFL career back in his native Victoria after playing 164 games with the Swans over the past nine seasons.