I understand this notion of Ratchford as a loose forward, but it would sanitise an already unconvincing pack in order to make space for a fast player and expect him to create out of nowhere.

Ratchford is the best fullback in the squad, Inglis aside as we are yet to see what he can deliver. Organisationally he out ranks Ashton, he is VASTLY more creative in the third pivot role and has enough of a running threat to create and exploit gaps himself.

Ashton, at this stage, is raw speed. And that is good. But raw speed running at a flat, unbroken defensive line gets tackled pretty easily. We can’t squeeze out a pack member for another pivot and expect to make ground, break tackles and win quick play the balls. Cooper and Hill are under enough pressure for that as it is.

If Ashton is a fullback, and only a fullback, he better wait in line. But he is at best second choice. If I was him, I’d be banging on the coaches door forcing his hand to pick me on that wing and getting the chance to prove what I can do for 80 minutes.

If this is indeed the case then I personally would rather we lost Charnley

Me too, it's probably down to whose contract expires first.

It will be interesting to see where he goes a return to hull ? Maybe Wigan with manfredi retiring?

He will leave some big boots to fill in not sold on it being cap restrictions if we're rumoured to be interested in Tom Davies then he will be looking at similar money now. It shows there's still some uncertainty on Ashton if we're looking at Davies with Ashton to replace Charley.after another year ?

Rumour is Leeds for Tom Lineham isn't it?

Yes. Agar worked with him and knows him as good as anyone.

I think it would be a good move for both, especially given he wants to settle down over the dark side of the pennines. I'd much rather he went to Leeds than saints or Wigan, Leeds are still a good 5 or 6 quality players off competing at the top IMO.