As has been said; he isn't a strike player and don't be surprised if he doesn't make many breaks. His pace and susceptibility to injury are what you would expect from a 30+ year old forward who has been a tackling machine.

That said, his leadership and organisation skills in defence will really help. He's a great example to young players and expect them to learn a lot from him. He's also a really nice bloke and as genuine as you could hope to meet.

I wish him and Feka all the best at Salford (except when they play us!)

Chris Bailey?

Were we not linked with him a few years back?

Bails' will bring a wealth of experience and graft to your side, and that is something a team like Salford will need (no disrespect intended)

Wouldnt be surprised to see him as your captain next season.. he wont be an attacking second rower, but he will get through endless amounts of tackles and get your line organised. It was regulary said how much of an influence he was at Wigan by the younger players aswel.

I wouldn't worry about signing Bailey in isolation, but I would be concerned about the number of players you have signed who are 30+ who may be after one last payday.

On the plus side Patten could be a real star signing for you.

You have a chance of pushing for 8th spot, conversely you could also really struggle if McRae can't motivate the 30+ brigade.

Thanks for the comments guys.

I still have a feeling we're wasting a quota spot, but if he can bring in some new ideas on defensive patterns and improve the line then he should prove a useful signing. Like you say, he's also helped develop your younger players, and look how good Liam Farrell has become.

I'd be worried about the 30+ issue, if we didn't have good young players coming through. Salford's real issue the McRae factor!! I have serious issues about his ability to motivate any group players. However, having new/better players, two new assistant coaches and replacing Andy Haigh could motivate McRae a LOT more, which should rub off on the players.

I honestly can't understand why people obsess over someone being "world class" or "setting the world on fire".

A team sport needs all types and Phil Bailey is, imo, an excellent signing for Salford.