I wonder if we signed a player with the surname Scotland he'd have to go to Tonga for his visa

There's no logical reason why a UK government office shouldn't be in any part of the UK, though, that said, the majority do seem be in London - presumably because that's the most expensive place they could find to site them. Presumably the same reason is used to site 'local' offices in places like Leeds.

I know there are a number of embassies based in Edinburgh. I wonder if maybe the one he needs just happens to be there, rather than London? Total guesswork admittedly.

True enough. I can remember a few years back, one country (I forget which, but it wasn't anything like the USA or Soviet Union..it might have been one of those which ended in STAN, though not even one of the obvious ones, even in that much smaller group) which had its high commission down Mount St, just off Leeds Rd, in Bradford.

What a shame with the injuries as if everyone was fit would there be a better back line (other than KR) in the league than

1. Smith
2. Ryan
3. Tonga
4. Gibson
5. Campbell
6. Aston
7. Chisholm

Certainly some strike and pace there

I see that Fev tried to sign Dane Nielsen but couldn't get his visa completed in time.
Not sure what their current centres are like but that is a potential bullet dodged imo, I didn't rate Nielsen at all when he played for us - I've never seen a centre so afraid of a touchline before!

Couldn't half defend though.

Agreed superb reader of the game especially at championship level, think thats half the problem sometimes signing a big name people expect miracles. I was more than happy with his contribution to be fair

When we signed Nielsen he hadn't played for quite a while and arrived unfit. He may be a totally different player if fit.
My question is why is he looking at playing in the championship if he is that good. It seems that he is now a fringe player struggling to find a place.

Another 18 man squad announced. Let's hope there's some good news - preferably today!

I for one, won't be holding my breath.

Probably wise, HC. How long can these visa clowns spin out what should be a straight forward wave through application? Is it Parkinson's Law? Had Tonga stayed at Leigh for the season and gone to Bradford on loan there would have been no quibble. Are these red-tapers as unfit for purpose as the Red Hallers?