Huddersfield abandon Carney deal

Carney has been refused a visa to the United Kingdom

Huddersfield Giants have had to abandon their plans to sign controversial Australian stand-off Todd Carney after he was refused a visa for the UK.

The Giants had agreed a deal with the 22-year-old, who was axed by Canberra Raiders for off-field problems.

"His circumstances are well documented and we felt that on balance he would be likely to be granted a visa," said Giants director Richard Thewlis.

"However despite our best efforts his application has been rejected."

Carney was sacked by Canberra last summer after a series of alcohol-related events and banned from playing in the NRL until 2010.

"We must now abide by the ruling and move forward accordingly," Thewlis added.

606: DEBATE Losing him this close to the season leaves the Giants with a massive hole to fill in a very short space of time DuffTerrier

"It is clearly a disappointment for Todd as he was looking forward to playing in Super League."

Speaking before the news, Carney's agent David Riolo told the Sydney Morning Herald: "If he's not allowed to go overseas, he's going to have to seek employment in Australia.

"He's a professional rugby league player. I'll have to try and find him a club.

"I'll have to ask the NRL if he can be registered, and if they choose not to, I'll be asking on what grounds."