says may consider him at fullback next season.Sounds good to me just hope hes up for that.If fitzy signs a new deal maybe he could interchange at hooker? whats everyones views??

i was thinking about this the other day... i think it would be a good move and possibly could enhance ratchfords ability further... it would be nice to watch a salford side that had three 'halfbacks' in the backline, yes ratchford is creative as we all know, but wing and centre thwarts anychance of making an impact in the middle of the park

it would be nice if we had a quick hooker someone in the mould of leo-latu we wouldnt be a 5 drives team then!

I think Ratchford would make an excellent fullback. He's got safe hands, pace, good defence and with him chiming in the line from fullback when we're on the attack it could be very dangerous. As well as Fitzys played this season I just don't see us offering him a new deal, not quite up the job at super league level anymore IMO (Sorry Alan ).

Maybe he could be used in a Brett Hodgson type roll at FB

[iDon't care where Stefan Ratchford plays

The main thing is he stays at the club long term.

[/i

Don't get me wrong Fitzy has played really well this season, but IMO I think Ratchford could do a better job at FB. He's quicker than Fitzy I think, and its always possible that with his step he'll be able to beat the first man something which Fitzy doesn't do enough of. Fitzy's brave as a lion and for the size of him takes some stopping, I love his enthusiasm when he returns the kicks, but we need that little bit extra IMO. I don't see how we'll miss his bombs at fullback its not as if you put a bomb up every set of 6 is it? When the right time comes you could easily find stef at first or second receiver and he can stick one up. I just think he has all the attributes to make a quality fullback.

I've thought for a while, based upon his performances on the wing, the Ratchford could make an excellent full back.

Not so sure about Fitzy as a hooker though? Maybe offer him a contract as a versatile squad player though.

A lot of full backs now are pretty much third halfbacks, if Ratchford plays there and excels, he could certainly push for an England shirt in the future in my opinion. I have yet to see him play in a match where I havent been impressed with him.

ratchford not had the best of seasons in my eyes.. i now hes had a few injury problems bt ive got to desagree with you there cos carnt remember 1 game this season which ratchford has stood out

Think Ratch will make an excellent fullback, he has a good rugby brain, is decent tackler and brave all the qualities you need to be a full back.
Add in that he can then link into the midfield play and you have another excellent attacking option rather that Hodgeson from Hudds/Wire.

I have also always advocated haveing versatile backs and again with Ratch at the back should one of the halves get crocked mid game he can move to either 6 or 7 to cover, think if we do move him it wont be long before were looking at one of the best fullbacks we've had for a long while.