James Rowbottom addresses Nick Blakey trade rumors ahead of finals

Sydney midfielder James Rowbottom confirms he has not discussed potential trade plans with housemate and teammate Nick Blakey. Blakey is one of five Swans players suspended by the club for the remainder of the 2026 season due to an alleged incident at a Melbourne hotel currently under police investigation. While rival clubs have reportedly expressed interest in acquiring the defender, Rowbottom maintains that their private conversations have focused on personal support rather than professional details. The Swans are preparing to face Brisbane in a qualifying final this Saturday. Despite the absence of the five suspended players, including Isaac Heeney and Chad Warner, the team remains focused on their premiership campaign. Rowbottom stated that the responsibility of addressing the squad’s roster decisions rests solely with club leadership.

• 2:52 AMAFL — Swans mid in the dark about banned housemate's trade plans