Tommy won't be starting the season at 9.

The team will change and adapt throughout the course of the season due to how players are playing, injuries and suspensions.
I agree that our area of 'weakness' could be the 9 spot, but we have lots of options.

Roberts to 1 Sam to 6, Sam at 1, no doubt Finch, Tommy, Deacon can all play 6,7,9 as well as this we have McC at 9 and some (hopefully) good young lades looking to break through, Logan Tomkins, Mellor, Powell etc who can all play in the positions. I've also got a sneaky feeling Tuson may also find himself playing dummy half at some stage this season.

I just hope competition for places equals talent in key positions.

I honestly think one of our top qualities is strength in depth. RL is a tough sport, a strong squad is crucial.

I agree with this.

I think we are worrying too much about the no. 9 spot.

For me it will just happen the same way it did this year when McIlorum was out. Next year Tommy starts at 7 with Deacon on the bench, when deacon comes on to give McIlorum a rest, Tommy moves to 9:

1. Sam
2. Goulding
3. Gleeson
4. Carmont
5. Richards
6. Finch
7. Leuluai
8. Fielden
9. McIlorum
10. Coley
11. HH
12. Joel
13. O'Loughlin

14. Deacon
15. Hoffman
16. Lima
17. Prescott

Just writing that team now makes me think how good our strength in depth is. What do we do with Mossop, O'Carroll, Roberts, Farrell, Tuson, Charnley, Marsh, Pryce, Hock (when he's back) etc. We could have 8/9 injuries and still be one of the best teams in the league. Amazing. Cant wait for next year.