Here’s my thoughts. Recruitment needs to be absolutely bang on.

The two number one signings must be a halfback and a prop forward in the enforcer mould.

We also need a couple of second row forwards and some cover for centre/full back.

I have thought a lot and personally I would only extend Croft and Shaw of those out of contract.

Here is my wish list of sorts:

Sam Williams (halfback) organising half, good kicking game and can set try’s up.

Marty Taupau - (prop) vastly experienced NRL prop.

John Asiata - (LF, Prop) One who may fall victim to the quota issue at Leigh.

Jack Ashworth - (SR) big unit and would have him interchange with Tanginoa for impact.

Leon Ruen - (SR) seems to have gone well at Doncaster.

Jack Croft - (been impressed with him lately).

Jack Broadbent (FB, C) - if he hasn’t signed for Cas.

Isaac Shaw (prop) - think he will continue to grow. Maybe more of a long term project.

I’d look to promote another 2 promising academy lads - maybe a halfback and a centre also. Pratt? Beevers?

Yes. Willie has said they are already doing deals with people but couldn't finalise anything till we were safe.

Your point is a very good one. Anyone that spots a player for the first time at World Cup and then signs them is heading for trouble.
Knowing how diligent Willie is he already has a list of players in WC squads he wants to deal with once they tick the International box.

I read an article by Mathew Shaw the other month that said that because the WC is over here, players will be automatically allowed a work permit/Visa and that quite a few SL clubs will be taking advantage of this. It’s no great secret, just some sort of loop hole. We won’t be the only team. Can’t see any negatives to it, just speeds up the process

I hope you’re right and said players that have been identified haven’t signed else where already.

Totally agree.

The WC is nothing like club rugby. Players can look absolutely fantastic playing what amount to exhibition matches in the early stages. Many a false star has been born.

However it will still throw up the odd gem or highlight how much better a known player is than you thought.

It’s really a job for Poching and on this one I do trust him and his team. I wouldn’t be surprised if we don’t sign any from the WC and whilst others sit entranced we don’t ransack a few good fringe players from the big clubs whilst nobody is looking.

I’d be pleased if Daniel Alvaro signed for Trinity. A great replacement for Big Dave.

I would have thought his contract would be nul and void with Toulouse relegation to Championship…