He would only ever have returned as a shadow of his former self - at probably three times the wages we signed him on.

I think my heart just broke a little bit...!

I actually agree with you.

I remember at a testomonial dinner just after he announced he was leaving. When asked if he would return to Saints. His return was "it all depends what the pound is like".

Im dissapointed as he told a few of us in person last yer that he would be returning for 2011 but i agree with Mugwump the wage bill and expectations would of been way out of line.

I'd prefer to go with Billy Slater if he stays healthy and great.

It's a shame really, as a mere neutral I like to see Saints pile misery on Warrington year after year with that ridiculous 42 - 1 win record against them or something in SL/

Lyon would have extended that on his own.

He would look gorgeous in a red vee. Can you imagine what he'd cost?? The other 12 would have to be hoiked from Pilks, Brook and Thatto.......

Well, after clinching the signing of Inglis for the 2012 season, we could hardly afford both.

they already are

The Lyon transfer was one of those "once in a generation" deals where the asking price was dizzyingly disproportionate (in our favour) to his worth. Big Name players == Big Name Salaries.

We should have just kidnapped him, refused to let him go.

Good!
He'll visit one day again no doubt.

Says in Oz that he turned us down. We offerd him a contract but declined for less money at Manly. Family love the Manly area (aint no Rainford is it).