Quote: dboy "Til one does a knee, then you have none...
Proper competition for a starting spot is essential to get the best out of any player.
Also, Jowitt has the ability to play 6 and offers cover there.
We need a better squad, not just a better 1-17.'"
It’s a funny one that.
I toll agree on the theory. However Salford have a paper thin squad but with a relative lack of injuries and a few additions and they look great!
If it were me I’d look at signing a smaller squad of say 26 but of real quality. Bring up a couple of of extra Academy lads. But crucially leave money in the bank for mid to late season loans/signings.
At that point we will know our weaknesses and where injuries have hit.
How many times have loan players and mid season signings either turned us around or more positively given us a further boost, a lot I suspect.
It’s not even a risky strategy imho. If you use up all your budget pre-season then you leave yourself open to not being able to cover situations. For example all your forwards are fit but you have no pivots.
Start with 26 - 28 and add 2 - 3 key players as required. I’d even be tempted to keep 1 of our three overseas free.
Imagine if we are playing for a play off spot in July or August and we could bring a quality Aussie in. There are always a few out of favour ones looking for a SL shop window.
Toppo was the master of this though I accept there were a lot more players available then.
But what do know in fairness.