Much as I am impressed by Delaney's work ethic and the way he now runs, our back row options are looking a bit one dimensional, especially when we play a prop at 13. Some skill might work wonders. I also wonder if his body is really going to last 5 years the way he plays. I predict he won't see the contract out.

Both points spot on. It is a confusing management decision in my opinion.

That is not a slight on Delaney at all, just looking at the reality of the situation, from a salary cap point of view.

He's 28, been on the treatment table many times this year. Even when passed to play he has been putting his body on the line at not 100%. He already had another two years to run. Why the sudden rush to tie him up longer? Why not wait until next season and see if he is still struggling with injuries and this season is purely a one off? then you can offer him another deal.

Your other point on running grafters also correct. Where is our line breaking, offloading, pace to burn options?

Great news - a real 'blood and guts' performer. He's one of the few players in our team that turn up and play as thought their life depends on it, regardless of the opposition or the magnitude of the game. Although clearly he's not the most skilfull of players, he makes the absolute most of what talent/natural ability he does have and you can't ask for more from him.
He's run himself into the ground this season, has played injured and is paying the price for that now. He'll need a good off-season recovery.
I think the club have acted to tie him to a long term deal to stop the NRL clubs sniffing - he's exactly the sort of workhorse that would go wonders in the NRL. If he'd only had 2 years left, the NRL clubs would have been circling next year offering him big money - at least this way, it might put them off, and Delaney has now set his sights on being in England for another 5 years, if his contract was due up in 2 years, he'd be bound to consider returning home, particularly when he knows he could get a good deal back there. (I also think his little bromance with Bailey will have played a role in him staying)
On a seperate note, I believe he'd now qualify for England on residency - I wonder if Steve Mc will be enquiring about his availability?

His injuries this season have been unfortunate - unconnected injuries, one to each knee which have come in quick succession.

No reason to suspect he can't make a full recovery from both and offer more game time going forward.

Strong carry, strong defender - a good complement to the more skilfull back rowers like Ablett or Ward alongside the likes of JJB. Every team needs its workhorses.

Better news too on Keinhorst.

Shoulder does need an operation, but if rehab goes well he could be available during the playoffs.

zzzzzz



As already stated Delaney has proved to be a good signing with this work ethic and commitment, but this news hardly generates excitement.

I would still like to see Delaney as a starting front row prop; probably his next move after his last few appearances as "third prop". I predict he will also be a future captain, IF he manages to be around for longer than Sinfield and Peacock.

Delaney has possibly sacrificed some money for security. 2 more years at £100k, versus 5 more years at £75k.

Good news. Delaney has been a stand out performer since his move to the pack. His regular high tackle count, big metres and carries makes him the best bet to replace JP up front when the time comes.

Great player and fair play to him getting this deal.

He's a bit weird though.

Delaney is everything you want in a forward. Runs hard and often. He's the anti kirke.

As for backing off players because of injuries, I'm glad Gotcha wasn't negotaiting a deal with Watkins, what with his injury record.

Good player,someone we will need to carry us forward when jp and kylie move on.

Regards his injuries,i dont recall him having too many whilst at the club and its on recently he has started breaking down a bit.alot of that is due to him playing whilst not being fully fit of late.

Interesting. You go searching through 4 pages just to find a post of mine. Well it's not really.... predictable yes.

Why derail a thread about a 28 year old forward and try to compare to a 19 year old back? seems strange... although again predictable.