Most other wingers in SL would have put Olpherts into touch for his try on Friday. Olpherts (among others) did that to Thewlis more than once last season as well. Thewlis' goal line defence is sketchy at best at times. Powell seems to be summing up whether his work in attack makes playing him worthwhile at the moment which I think is a fair question.

Fair play to Powell too, I think of all our recent coaches he’s the only one that has continually pushed youth in to the first team. There were times last year when people were sure Powell would drop Wrench / Thewlis for Minikin - but he never did, even giving Lynch a shot.

Because Russell wasn't here then. Am I missing something?

Wasn't minikin ruled out for the season early doors?

If were going to build a strong squad for the future, then we need to have faith in the future. Good to see that Thewlis keeps the shirt, and Holdroyd will get an opportunity. I get the arguments about Russell, as we do need wing cover, the same applies to Minikin. Russell, in his first spell, wasn't the future and was moved on, and that's why I'd prefer Thewlis getting a start. However, wing isn't making the most of his ability, but that won't change in the short term with Dufty in the squad.

I'm sure Russell will get a crack sometime. Minikin had a good game vs. Leeds and took his try really well.