I don't think anyone is panicking at all. I think there is justification for concern given our dealings last year after identifying our weaknesses and failing to sign anyone to improve those weaknesses.

I think that's fair. IL talks about wanting to be the best side in the world. Well, watch the Roosters, the Bunnies on song, even the boring Broncos; they all have forward packs to put ours to shame, even though I believe we have good strike players out wide, we will not get close to these teams without better metre-munchers.

The Broncos have been one of the most entertaining sides this year. Some of the rugby has been superb.

On Wigan, isn't the whole way the team plays going to change with Sam Tomkins back on board? I still think he'd be better at 6/7 and letting someone else return kicks etc, but in attack he's going to be the main focal point. I wouldn't underestimate nhow different you are as a team with him back.

As for Leeds, we had to sign a half-decent prop (Galloway) as we're losing the two who've been there for almost a decade - at the same time. I'd be surprised if we were in for Hampshire, as I hope that Sutcliffe gets given the chance to make the 6 his own.

This forum has been sadly lacking a decent thread for ages. We have one here were people were contributing nicely, expressing opinions and voicing concerns eloquently and pleasantly then you had to get involved in the way that you have, throwing disparaging comments around. This from a moderator too. No doubt I will now be the subject of some rapier like put down, and we all know how much you crave the last word, so go for it.

A little OTT - who is panicking?

FWIW if you wait 7 months then you'll be 7 months too late. You only need to look in the press to see that we are currently in the period where the majority of deals/contract extensions are being finalised.

History shows that May, June & July are the main times for wrapping up NRL signings. Edie was June, the three Storm guys in July.

I await a sarcastic response, although it won't address any of the points above.

Sarcastic response.

Just because we haven't heard, does not mean they are not being done. All that's being said is that maybe it's best to judge when we see the whole picture, as opposed to just using as another thread to roll out the usual IL or SW bashing.... Offering a balanced approach immediately means I'm a happy clapper, I'll live with that.

The plan is to give him the game time next season at half back. I think he will cement a place alongside George Williams and we will be in a great position for years to come.

TBF I don't think that's a sarcastic response. You've put a reasoned argument forward that makes sense. The sarcastic responses are those that can be seen above that belittle others that have differing opinions.

FWIW I'm a massive IL fan. I'm defo in the minority who support the most of his decisions (London etc) it's just on the recruitment front I always feel like I'm left wanting more.

OT but I'll hold my hands up and say I miss the superstars that we/ SL had 10/15 years ago. Watching Lam, Trent, Dallas, Renouf etc going up against the likes of Lyon, Big Les, Gidley etc made the game extra special imo. Today's youngsters and journeymen that we are filled with simply dont generate that level of excitement.

Always? Is it realistic to expect high-profile signings [ievery[/i year? I write this as a Leeds fan; our recruitment's been fairly low key for a few seasons yet with a couple of signings we're suddenly being envied (though not necessarily by you personally, I should add). The signings we've made are to replace some very high profile retirees. Conversely, you seem to be retaining the core of what is a decent team, plus you've got Sam back. I don't get the dissatisfaction if I'm honest.

For me and, I suspect, a few others it's to do with our style, not results. Our backs are carrying the forwards to some extent IMO. Call me a traditionalist, but I want forwards to lay a platform and backs to exploit it. I'm not one for going over stats but I suspect our props metreage is poor compared to other top teams. Therefore, when a solid looking option like Galloway goes to a rival I cast envious glances. Also, you can add that we have a talented but young squad, with only 2 players aged 29 or over whereas Leeds have probably 7 or 8. My view is that some extra experience would bring a lot to the table. This, by some, is viewed as either IL/SW bashing or "panicking" when it's neither.

Sounds eminently reasonable when you put it like that. I based my comments largely on your results, not least against us. It's also possible your pack haven't really flexed their muscles yet. I don't think Wane's as daft as some make him out to be and you'll maybe be pleasantly surprised from here on in. Naturally I hope not though

My frustration is based on how very average SL has been this year and with a bit of intelligent recruitment last year in the forwards would see us comfortably the best in the league.

We are sitting in 3rd with a powderpuff pack, misfiring halves inconsistent centres a hot and cold fullback and relatively well performing wingmen.

Hardly a great reflection on the competition is it?

Painfully accurate.

Wigan have had a fantastic 5 years but I think we can also look back on parts of it as a wasted opportunity to really dominate and have another golden era. We've lost players we should really have kept and seem to constantly in a period of development (both of our own players and project signings).

It looks like yet another big turn over of players in the off season with more concrete ideas on outs then ins.