I suspect Bailey will struggle to make a fully fit Leeds 17 and that, unfortunately for us, Leeds will be a more formidable outfit as a result.

Does anybody know when his contract runs to?

Finishes at the the end of this iirc. Doubt he will get a new contract unless he has a big year, so this may be the year that he does make an impact if he is playing for a contract.

Would you prefer to see Bailey coming off the bench than Diskin? Having a two hooker system means we have three big guys rather than four coming off the bench. The TV commentators picked up repeatedly last year on Leeds' ability to bring on not only size but also experience from the bench.

That is a very astute point and especially in the tougher fixtures the 'big four bench' would be my preference, injuries permitting.

Oh don't get me wrong, he's no lightweight, but he isn't the same dynamic ball carrier Burgess is. He is, as I said, a much better defender than Burgess though. Bailey is also a bit dirty, in the right sort of way (regardless of what other fans will tell you) and does a lot of the dirty work that needs doing but isn't always appreciated. All teams need some of that kind of player. I think a lot of people overlook that side of the game when comparing players, but it's a quality you don't win trophies without.

If he plays every week like he did in the latest GF win over you lot, then yes you have got a lot to worry about.

We all know the real reason why you lot don't like him. Your cards are marked.

I hope he plays in all the big games, but he won't. Doubt he'll get another contract either unless he's on buttons.

Don't we have this convo every pre season about Bailey? Last year I think some suggested he should leave.

Yet another season where our own fans, let alone opposition write off Ryan.

I expect it will be yet another season where they're all proven clueless by the coaching staff who will continually select him in the 17.

As for our fans rating Burgess above him it shows their complete lack of comprehension. I don't wish to turn this into a bash Burgess thread as both players are different and have different skills sets but Burgess still needs to work on his ball retention and concrete feet before he's near Ryan in the pecking Order.

Having said that, with Peacock and Kylie's ages Bailey and Burgess will, hopefully be the cornerstones of our pack for future years. opposition fans and our own fekkwitts will still slate Bailey but we will still keep on winning with him as an integral part of the pack.

I'm intrigued as to the meaning of this phrase? I get the feeling i'll like it and will want to steal it for myself.