Rumours thread

Quote: alegend "
Quote: alegend "Here’s my thoughts - though I think all are doing a great job this season and that should be recognised.

Keep

Pitts - I’d keep as an interchange/rotation 13 and back up experienced SR. I wouldn’t expect him to play as many games.

Hood - been good this year and I’d give him another season next year to help the development further of Doyle/Smith but expect him to rotate more next season with those two in a transition of sorts.

Booth - I think PT said he may be signed but he can play wing, Fb and centre and looks to have potential and speed.

Kay - I think I’d keep him as a squad player due to his utility value in a few positions.

Croft - solid centre and would keep as a squad player.

Undecided …

Griffin - I’m 50/50. I feel the new tackle techniques may make it hard for second rows been stretched to tackle low and I think Griffin may struggle with this. But he could be a good option as an interchange SR for the season and come on around 50 minute mark for some big runs.

Other…

Jerry - think he came back too early for Wembley as he’s had his arm strapped since but probably playing through it but expect him to retire.

Ashurst - Very professional solid second row. He’s got more time left at top championship level but I think we need to find the next Ashurst. Big boots to fill.

Olpherts - been good for us but another like above who would likely stay at top championship level.

Franco - Think championship is his level imo.

Shaw - not seen enough of him but see above.

Law - not seen enough of him but he’s been around a few years and can’t seem to break through.

Thornley - like him as a player but with games missed probably look at other options but he’s been good when he’s played.

Bowden - think he’s got a few years at championship level but think we couple look for a young up coming prop.'"

Think we are getting carried away with how good our team is,The main reason why we are going well in the Championship is more down to been full time than the rugby we are playing yet we have fans who want to go back up to S L with players who were way to old and way past there best last season in S L you could not make it up Plus the young players in the key posions are not S L standed yet'"

I broadly agree. Though I do think there needs to be a handful for next season who will help the transition till the required targeted players are available who the owner wants.

That’s why I was probably a bit more ruthless in the ones I wouldn’t keep and only come up with 4/5. That said, and this is a sticking point….

Ther players we bring in MUST be better than those we don’t retain. For continual improvement.

Just again to add, the players as a squad are doing a fantastic job this season and being very committed and professional no matter what their contract situation. That’s testament to both club and players and a lot of the players who won’t be with us will likely get good contracts for their performances at other clubs should they wish.