Arguably the most improved, consistent player in the squad. He'd be in for me all the time.

I'd like Hampshire to get a game and also be given a good run next year -- if still with us. Earlier in the year I thought he played a bit too individually and a bit frentic for Leigh's style of play from 2016. However his read of the try against Wigan showed his class, and he has great energy. I think with the right guidance and a bit of time, he can give the Leigh fans some really good moments -- if he's happy to play fullback or wing.

With regards McNally, I didn't think he'd step up as much as he has this year and he really seems to be enjoying the collisions of SL now. Another one for the most improved list for sure and great pair of hands when on the attack. Either way exciting prospect for a rollercoaster game.

I am looking forward to the game and I think you will beat Catalans

So do I.. Possibly time to go "off the cuff" again.

Personal preferance but I would not put Hampshire on a blow football team, Given the choice of him or McNally, Greg every time.
Hookers, it is no time for sentiment it has to be Hood and Pellisier, Mickey and I know it was virtually the wole match he played against Widnes but he was completely knackered and dare I say it showing his age, the other two have so much more energy to spend and that will be required in bucketfuls.
Langi, is the injury seroius enough not to react to painkillers, for the 80mins, there is a long recovery period after this game.
Subs bench, definatley run with 4 forwards, in recent games that seems to be Cats only attacking option. Stop their forwards and we stop them.
Tactic, target Walsh with ball in hand, run at both Inu and Duport neither can tackle or dont seem to want to, and pepper Tierney with bombs.

Well I'd like the see the other 2 hookers play a full game and see what there energy is like, Higham has plenty if interchanges go ok just like the others. He also adds experience and leadership which is vital in a game like this - old head could be crucial.

Agree with McNally, not done a lot wrong recently and earns the FB shirt

Also agree about the 4 forwards, which means no risk for Langi unless Paterson is fit who can slip into the centres

Are you saying you would play Langi?

Kieran Cunningham rates Ryan Hampshire. Yes he is a talent but has not realised that yet at 3 clubs. Dropping McNally for him at this stage is not only very harsh but is also a huge huge call, IMHO.

As for Higham , he has had a nasty bout of illness that has laid him low for a fortnight. He is recovered but it is another huge call. I believe he will play though.

I do not think Langi will be risked if I am honest, they are assessing him day by day but I reckon Saturday will be a week or so to soon for him put his boots back on again.

All in my opinion of course. Another couple of days to go yet though.

Who picks the team, Cunningham or Jukes?

If you lose on Saturday probably Cunningham after then.

Oh I have walked in to that one - No it's definitely Neil Jukes decision.

I watched young Ryan when he was a youngster and he was outstanding, one of the best prospects around. He was head and shoulders better than both George Willams and Matty Smith at junior level,believe me.

I say you only get the best out of Ryan Hampshire by placing an arm round his shoulder and that's Keiran Cunningham's role at Leigh as Head of Rugby. He has got him to knuckle down and focus , allowing the coaches to concentrate on coaching.

The roles do seem confusing, but that's a debate for after Saturday.

As for Hampshire, I remember thinking he was unlucky not to get his chance at Wigan, I think it was Bowen they signed that kept him out. Hopefully he does well if he plays this week.

Still not picking a 17!

The Watcher would leave Higham out for what is going to be a very tight affair. The Watcher believes the amount of penalties Higham gives away around the ruck area could prove crucial to the result of this game. The Watcher would like to wish all the players selected for the match the best of luck & would ask them to try & cut out all the silly penalties we seem to give away at important periods of big fixtures.

The fact that we are playing Catalans only serves to emphasise the need to be ultra squeaky clean and disciplined for me. If indeed you ever need such a reason.

Harold Rigby firmly believes that Catalan being the opposition for the MPG works in our favour.