Spoken like a real supporter.

Good move for all parties in my opinion. Hull get a playmaker that you are crying out for. The pressure will be taken off Agar because he can now start talking up "next" season. Thorman will be able to move to his natural position of stand off. Saints get a big earner off the cap and can bring some more youngsters into the squad. Long gets a nice final contract to top up his pension.
Everyones a winner.

Better timing than announcing him just before passes go on sale?

Don't think so.

IMO the club have announced as early as possible to give the fans and players a bit of good news in a sea of despair, and to demonstrate that they ARE at least trying to address our shortcomings. Putting a few extra bums on seats on Friday may be a welcome bonus if it happens, but I seriously doubt that it was the main reason.

Plus Byrne already gone. 2-3 fringe players released may add up to one decent one too.

I have a sneaky suspicion Tony will get another deal though, actually.

He asked for a 2 year contract, it was rejected ?

I suppose.. but i can't imagine Thormans defence improving just because he's now playing at stand off.

doubt that

why would our fans want to watch long play against us

i dont think fc's contracts are that good...2 examples Cooke (judas) carvell (judas) Reardon (dint even start) were not known for our excellent contracts are we...just surprises me how fc keep making themselves look like fools...we will see if he even gets here hows that

i wonder what rwill happen if he scores a try

Have to say that looking at the bigger this is potentially a great signing.

He will be able to bring on the younger players. Offering his experience and teaching them how to step up to the next level, which is sadly lacking at the club at the moment.

So with Fitz teaching the forwards and Long the backs we may just start to see the potential that the youngsters at the club have coming to fruition. I am certain that Lee will develop under Long.

I am also certain that with Long by his side Horney will develop into the international half that he should be.

We still need a top class coach to bond that learning together.

Plus I might add one or two other changes in personel.

your avatar seems to contradict your sentiments...

Oh I !!!

Some good points there. And I hope you're right about Agar as it's looking like he'll still be coach for 2010 at least.

You lucky people, we've had him pi$$ off so many fans over the years with his cocky swagger. I hope he has 2 good years in Hell, but no cups please
Good Luck Longy we'll miss ya

I read Tony wants to go back to the NRL.
Hopefully yes, i forgot about Byrne.
I don't want to see Lee Burnett Maloney Thackray or Whiting go though. Two year deals all round except Burnett and Maloney with perhaps 3 or 4