This is a sensitive subject, because obviously I hope that his health returns to normal and he continues to play for us, but if Purtell can't play again (ie - he decides to retire for the good of his health) would we be covered by some form of insurance policy?

Oh please, everybody hopes Adrian gets well soon, Ive even said that I would rather have him back playing for us than any other option. Theres nothing wrong with discussing 'ifs'

As fans we all demand that players put their bodies on the line for the club we support albeit for payment. And now some are already wanting to discuss who we should replace him with if he cannot play again.

I personally think this discussion is both premature and a little bit disrespectful. Just my opinion.

Personally, I think it's pragmatic.

I, and I'm sure everyone else, hope's Purtell makes a full and speedy recovery. However, if he doesn't and is forced to retire, then it does make next year's retentions a little easier.

At the moment, given Sammut's dispensation and his one year deal, as well as Nas only being signed for a single year, retention for both was not possible as we would only have 1 free quota spot. With the loss of Purtell, we would have space to retain both players which would be a good thing for the club as we'd have Nas' go forward in the pack and Sammut's off the cuff ability in the backs, both which IMO improve the overall balance of the team.

But even then, if we don't keep either of Sammut or Nas, we're back in the market for quota players and have 2 free spots.

I think someone mentioned Shenton earlier in the thread, if he is available then he'd be a good acquisition for the club and I have been told the Bulls have tried to sign him in the past before he left Cas. The only question there is the price tag, he'll be wanting a fair slice of the salary cap no matter where he goes. Young, talented and British is a rare and valuable commodity in the modern game, and unfortunately not always priced in line with their ability due to the enforced quota rules. But that's another argument.

of course our thoughts and prayers should be with Adrian Purtell and the hope that he can make a speedy and full recovery to helath, and an equally full return to our playing squad. However, it would be folly to suggest that we shouldnt even be thinking about contingencies and what ifs!

It is rather early to be seeking answers to whether he will return or not, but it is prudent to be looking at worse case scenarios (ie, he has to retire) and how we might respond to them.

Obviously my main concern is that Purtell recovers from this scare and get lead a happy life. If he is cleared to play for next season then I would love for him to stay at the Bulls. However if he isn't I would be happy if the Bulls payed the rest of his contract up (all 2 remaining years) and signed Sammut and Manuokafoa to 2/3 Year Deals.