Quote: Wellsy13 "Not all players value the same thing. Depending on the stage of their career, their ability, etc. they may value things completely differently. First team action for example. Where do you think Matt Diskin was more likely to win trophies? Bradford or Leeds?
Location can be a big factor, especially to overseas recruits who are making a lifestyle change. Apparently Hull City struggled to sign decent players because of the area (not the only reason obviously). London Broncos is a similar reason (distance for many, plus the expense of living in the area), although it can also be attractive for some British players to change lifestyle without going too far.
Glad we can remember what the thread was actually about though. I still find it amusing reading Standee digging further with his comments, such as "I said almost everything" (no you didn't) and basically there are a couple of shops in Beverley that he likes, do that makes shopping overall better in Beverley! Brilliant!'"
I agree there are other factors, as you say there's game time, and there's always some players who are genuine fans of a team and therefore don't want to play for another team. I still think it mainly boils down to the 3 factors I listed, though, and definitely in the specific case of long term contracts. I don't see any player committing to 5 years if he's in search of first team rugby, as it is surely a big gamble to think he'd be guaranteed his place for the duration of the contract, there are bound to be other players coming in during that time.
Whilst location does have an influence, I don't think it's as major as people might think in most cases, unless you're talking about London or Catalan. Football is also an entirely different case for 2 reasons: Firstly, there are literally teams all over the whole country, not just in 3 pockets across the M62 and a few other outposts, so players have far more choice and much more varied options; and secondly, there is a genuine transfer market, so the long-term commitment aspect is all but taken out of the equation.
