But maybe then the same thing will happen with FCL where they become maybe a bit isolated from the rest of the French clubs and playing pool? Love my trips to Toulouse and certainly wouldn't complain if they remained in the Championship, but I don't think the experiment has particularly worked in terms of the development of the French game.

They should submit an application - even if it is just to register their continuing interest and to show how they are progressing. At least keep themselves in the shop window still so that they can build towards their 2015 bid.

Are France currently producing enough players to cover 80% of two SL squads? Rivalries are all well and good but doesn't mean more talent will cone through.

The French RFL need to think through their best cause of action as tbh this shouldn't be on RFL agenda. Access to SL yes maybe but not the development of RL in France. There's a great heartland in the South of France but someone needs to find the best way to develop it!

are England currently producing enough players to cover 80% of twelve? a look at the Wakefield and HKA squadlist says not.

just beat me to it !

Very true Smokey, but that again opens up the questioning as to why the league was extended to 14 teams.

Debateable but top Champ sides full of British talent too so not short in supply.

I'm not against TO in champ at all btw just questioning if it's in their best interests ATM.

I don't think Carlos is thinking short-term

he is expecting to be playing in SL in 2015 and isn't particularly worried ATM hence his strong desire not to spend too much money in big name players - why do you think Nathan Wynn & Mathieu Griffi went to FCL ?
The current RFL policy seems to be that horrible word 'expansion' so TO13 in SL in the future is almost guaranteed whether we like it or not.
I personally feel one club like Catalans who have passionate fans in the heartland is enough for SL with TO plus the LER clubs acting as feeder clubs.

The Leeds Rhinos squad list suggests the same.

indeed, only 78.1% of the Leeds first team squad is british.

Is that 78.1 % of the 25 that are paid decent money or the 32 on the website including the kids who play for sweeties ?

its 78.1% of the Leeds Rhinos first team squad. 72% of the (likely) top 25 earners.

What do you know, the same as Trinity. So the next time you make a comparison you'll be able to include your beloved.

76% for warrington, not including the kids who arent playing, its about the right balance imo

Khav.. compare the standard of teams