Gildart too.

To a degree but I don't think his career has disappointed as much as that of Burgess. Gildart had good success at Wigan before going to the NRL. Off the top of my head I think Gildart won GF's in 2016 and 2018, whereas Burgess hasn't won any. They both have played in a couple of GF losses. Gildart made a decent go of his chances at International level as well. What I would say though is they're both good examples to lads who want to make it clear their ambition is to leave Wigan and go to the NRL, that the grass isn't always greener. I watched the James Graham interview with Welsby earlier and love him or loath him, he made it absolutely clear that playing in Superleague isn't a second prize and he won't give it up lightly.

that's exactly what you'd expect someone to say who was too scared to go and give it a crack....least Gildard, Williams, Mossop, Flannigan etc have give it a go, and kudos to them

Give over. He didn't say he wouldn't go, admitted he's tempted just that he also knows he's in a good place at the moment- best mates at the club, family love watching him every week etc.

He was just making the point (if you listen to it) that we shouldn't feel inferior to the NRL players

Enjoyed the interview.

I think the NRL bit was very carefully handled by him and by Graham.

It’s obviously a sensitive issue and as he stated Wellens had been on the phone.

I’d be shocked if he didn’t go at the end of his current contract to be honest, I also think if Smith continues on his current trajectory he will be gone at the same time too despite he 4 year contract.

Felt like he’ll go but the reason will be to prove he’s a top player rather than to experience all the trappings that come with a move to Oz. He seemed like he couldn’t care less about the weather, beaches, fame etc. He just seemed like he wants to be respected and it was refreshing to hear. I don’t think some of our ex players have gone for the same reasons.

Changed my view on Welsby over the last 6 months or so. That bit of arrogance he shows on the field is balanced out by a very level-headed and mature demeanour off the field - he speaks very impressively.

If I had to guess what he'll do I would say he'll go but perhaps not for the longer term. Can see him doing a couple of years to scratch the itch and then coming back to friends/family.

He definitely doesn't seem concerned with the sunshine or extra money I agree, its probably all about testing himself. I think if Saints offer him marquee money he will have a real decision to make. He will undoubtedly be captain by then too and the player that the club needs to re-build around. I don't think he has a chance of breaking Roby's appearance record which is what Graham suggested may be an aim but I've been told he is a real home bird, exceptionally close to his family etc.

I do agree though, despite this, I think he will go.

If somebody said to bet on what he’ll do, I think he’ll go at the end of this current deal, do 2 or 3 years and head back to St Helens (although it wouldn’t surprise me if he signed a 5 year deal at Saints instead).

One thing that stood out to me was what a crying shame it is that he’s not had a chance to play the Aussies or Kiwis. If he had regular games against them for England, I think he’d probably do a Roby/Lockers and stay here.

Bless. Insecure Wigan fans turning a thread about a terrible winger into a “grrr saints” thread.

You managed to win a grand final. No need to be jealous of saints

No need to pretend you're a Saints fan.

Sorry to break it to you but Wigans fans being insecure at the minute is laughable, now Saints fans I could go with.
I will have a bet with you £100 to a charity of your/my choice who actually wins the most trophies next year.
So you understand-
Me-Wigan-If Wigan win more you pay
You-Saints-If Saints win more I pay (I know it may hurt you, just ask your mum for more pocket money)

Meanwhile, despite all the turmoil the game is facing, one man continues his heroic stand against Wigan fans.

As if he's remotely interested in the game of Rugby league other than to troll these boards Cruncher

He had an alter ego on RedVee a while back, something like JackMooves, pretending to be a Saints fan whilst praising everything Wigan did, soon gave up when he stopped getting bites