Dan Houston Requests Trade Back to Victoria, Contradicting Earlier Commitment to Port Adelaide
Dan Houston has officially requested a trade from Port Adelaide back to Victoria, reversing his earlier commitment to stay. This request coincides with depth ruck Ivan Soldo also seeking a return to Victoria and Gold Coast forward Jack Lukosius wanting to leave. Despite previously asserting his loyalty to the club, Houston has not nominated a specific team yet and remains under contract for three more years.
Dan Houston has reversed his previous commitment to stay with Port Adelaide for the upcoming season, officially seeking an AFL trade back to Victoria. This announcement coincides with Ivan Soldo's request to return to Victoria after a year with the club, and Gold Coast's Jack Lukosius expressing a desire to return home.
Dan Houston's Shift in Plans
Just 25 days prior, two-time All-Australian Houston had assured fans that he would not depart South Australia. On August 30, during an interview with Adelaide radio station 5AA, he affirmed, "I am not leaving next year." However, recent reports from 7NEWS Adelaide's Josh Money confirmed that Houston has indicated his wish to be traded. Although he has not specified a preferred club, Houston remains open to staying with Port Adelaide if an appropriate deal cannot be negotiated. He is under contract for another three years with the club.
Rumors Surrounding Houston's Future
For several months, there have been rampant speculations linking Houston with a potential move to Melbourne. As the season drew to a close, the likelihood of such a transfer seemed to increase. However, it was reported that Houston had become less enthusiastic about joining the Demons due to internal challenges within the team and the dissatisfaction expressed by key players such as Christian Petracca.
Houston's Previous Commitment to Port Adelaide
In response to earlier speculations, Houston had expressed his dedication to Port Adelaide, stating, "I am contracted and I absolutely love the footy club, I love being in Adelaide." His commitment was highlighted after he was suspended for five weeks following an incident with Izak Rankine, which kept him out of the finals series. Despite this setback, Houston aimed to contribute to the team's efforts for the remainder of the season.
Support from Port Adelaide
Throughout his suspension and during challenging times, Houston acknowledged the unwavering support from Port Adelaide. The club actively backed him, even attempting to appeal the tribunal's decision to ensure his availability for finals. Houston expressed gratitude, stating, "They have always got my back and they have always been really supportive of me," emphasizing the camaraderie among his teammates.
Ivan Soldo's Departure and Jack Lukosius' Request
Simultaneously, Ivan Soldo, who moved to Port Adelaide in pursuit of more playing time, has decided to return to Victoria. After an initial six games this season, he found himself sidelined, unable to regain his position within the squad. Additionally, Gold Coast's Jack Lukosius, a former No. 2 draft pick, has indicated a desire to leave after a challenging year that included being dropped from the team.