Forster, the other young forward (prop/2nd row), seems to have been used a lot as a substitute last year.
He's highly rated, apparently, so perhaps he suits an impact role off the bench? I've not seen him, what the opinion of people that know his game?

I can't remember seeing him but believe he is highly rated. I think he has been selected fro the England U18's to play v Australia schools in the forthcoming two test series at Barrow and Castleford.

I'm going up to the game at Barrow on the 5th December so I'll see how he goes.

Has Makinson also been selected? I think he withdrew from the last international squad due to injury.

**EDIT** Just found the squad and he isn't there.

Cooper was 4 years older that Gareth. He was a unit but no drive.

Gareth was most certainly not overated as a youth player, every club in SL chased his signature. Including Wigan, Leeds and Warrington.

He'll be starting the season at Widnes apparently.

I remember prior to the dual reg deal with Leigh Jake Emmett taking at bit of a bashing but he has turned around his career and signed a deal at Castleford. We would welcome Gareth at Widnes and it might be the best for him if he signs.

A quick note though, the best young british front rower we have at the minute is Ben Davies from Wigan. Massive future ahead of him.

Only against wigan clubs ey

From what i have seen i would describe him as a workhorse but not an impact player.
He gets through a lot of tackling and driving the ball in but he's not really a line breaker or offloader.

I believe that to be true.
Not sure if it's a season long loan or dual registration.

No news on either clubs' website, but I would bet on dual reg.

I think this is a really positive move for both the club and for Gareth individually.

season long loan the deal is.and its great news for him the championship will toughen him up because playing in the reserves is doing him no good at all.frodsham and davies (hopfully) two good young front rowers for widnes

Quote: Cragganmore Kid "He'll be starting the season at Widnes apparently.'" Season long loan confirmed... www.widnesvikings.co.uk/article.php?id=3246 Mixed reviews then? Comparisons to Emmitt?

Quote: Cragganmore Kid "He'll be starting the season at Widnes apparently.'" Season long loan confirmed... www.widnesvikings.co.uk/article.php?id=3246 Mixed reviews then? Comparisons to Emmitt?

If he's any good he can sign a Super League contract for Widnes for 2012.

If he plays anywhere near as good as Jacob Emmitt i be happy.Ben Davies played well for Widnes last year, but unfortunanetly was on DR.With been on loan for the season, hopefully he will play regularly in the same team.Ben Davies used to go back to Wigan even though never played as was 18th man.Look forward to you all at the Stobarts next season, and may go a few games.