Can he catch? Can he run with any semblance of pace? Can he tackle?

If the answer to any two of the above is yes then he is an improvement...

They better play Eye of the Tiger when his name is read out in the line up...

I hope Connor doesn't mind me posting this but he comes from a Rugby Union background growing up near Sale Sharks rickety shack of a ground Heywood Road (sadly no longer with us).

But his true love is football as you say and Manchester United.

He's a top bloke and will be missed by all, although I hope he takes up my offer of joining me for the Crusaders game in the commentary box.

I would be interested to hear what Canberra fans think of Purtell. His scoring record there was certainly very good.

I know a thread has already been made but it's annoying me how much purtell is getting knocked already without playing a match? Surely he can't be as bad as made out if he's starting centre for a NRL club regardless of injuries? Just wondered if anyone actually seen him play? Myself I will hold my judgement till he plays, instead of slating someone who hasnt even played for us yet!

One thing I read from one fan is Purtell he trys really hard and looks gutted when he screws up - shows heart and determination, something only seen in a handful of players - Ainy and Elima to name a couple.

He played well on the wing for Penrith v Cowboys. Didn't know a great deal about him before we were linked, but will keep an eye on him via Prem Sports.

Says in todays RL rags that Joel Moons agent reckons he is more likely to come to SL than stay in the NRL. We should be interested in him IMO.

Well, I don't think he's as bad in this thread as he is in the other thread, so there's a point to this thread.

The people who have knocked him are youtube watchers who see youtube and then comment on a players ability! Personally I think he is alright, improvement on what we have, been watching him since 2007 since his Canberra days, very direct player. But cant comment on what he wpould be like as a super league player, all comes down to what service he gets from what ever half back pairing he gets

The quote from conner you have said could be, of not probably, be from what he has seen on Youtube like most people on here. And im saying personally his league knowledge is limited, like most people on here. Not trying to get under anyones skin. But like people who have suggested Herbert should be 13, clueless. Blaming all players for playing a defensive system that clearly isnt working.

What does that have to do with Conner's reporting ability?

Think this Purtell bashing is wearing a bit thin now. Give the bloke a chance. It certainly doesn't sound like he's a world beater but I'm sure he won't be getting paid as such. Any player who has held their starting place consistently for 2 seasons can't be that bad. He had a good game last weekend and looks like he's a real trier (total opposite of Ah Van). If you look at a few more YouTube videos other than the 'errors' one he shows some really nice touches and gives a fantastic pass in what's billed as the best ever penrith try. The last few 3/4 NRL signing have all been reserve grade players. It sound like he's coming regardless of opinions, so how's about we get behind the bloke and give him a chance

...is the right answer.

I think I would rate the opinion of someone who has watched him regularly rather more than those who might seek to form a view based just on some youTube clips and forum talk.

He can't be THAT bad, otherwise the fans would be clamouring to convert Michael Worrincy into a winger to fill his position (assuming MBBB has not recently joined the forum...).