I can't help wonder what the deal is with McDonnell at the minute. He's signed a one year deal at Leeds, which makes me wonder why? he's playing really well and is going to be named in the England squad later today from the reports I've just read. That isn't a player you only offer a year to, so it makes me wonder if he has his eyes on a move for 2027, be that to Oz or maybe a move back around these parts. I'd take him back as a replacement for Faz, although he discipline and error rate needs a bit of work. 

I think McDonnell is on the small side. He does seem to get overpowered quite a bit when defending. 

Really hoping that Farrimond can find his feet over these next few weeks. Lord knows we need a bit of something. 

If we can get Marshall back, then we're only really missing Miski, French and Walters.  As good as they are, the team should be experienced enough to cover for them (especially Walters, who couldn't get a game 12 months ago). 

Strangely, I'm looking at Saints and they've also got their most important player out, but seem to be playing with renewed confidence? Is it the addition of a bit of youth that's done it? Perhaps the new blood in Cross?  Is it Feldt doing those tough carries early in the set? 



If we aren't going to bring anyone new in, then let's give Wade a shot. For me,  having watched a lot of him in RU he'd, have scored a couple on Friday. Douglas wasn't bad, he carried relatively well for his age - but he's not a finisher like Wade is. 

To be fair we’ve played Salford twice in the last 3 weeks. 

However our best performance of the season was against Leeds. 


Sailor is finding his feet now and I think is revelling in Welsby’s absence, taking on creative responsibility. 


The other factor is Dagnall. He has been brilliant and has been very good with his yardage on kick returns in addition to finishing tries very well.