KaeruJim wrote:
Reading between the lines here, Leeds are signing Austin as a half. The fact he might be able to cover some other positions is a bonus, but Agar talks about recruiting depth into every position, and they identified that half back was a weak area.
The club isn't going to put it in the public domain that they're frustrated with Gale and want a decent back-up if he gets injured/throws his toys/gets suspended/loses form next year.
Gale will get that, and either choose to stay and fight for his place, or go somewhere else. I suspect he will stay with the intention of finishing his career off with Leeds (on a no doubt decent contract). By the way I wouldn't fault Gale's commitment to the club and his passion for it, and he is still a quality player on his day no doubt.
This also throws a decision at McLelland, whether he's willing to sit behind three first grade half backs or get first team elsewhere.
I imagine the 1-year makes sense for both. If Austin forces his way in, he gets an upgraded and extended contract with the funds released when Gale finishes (can't see him being retained after this contract).
Overall, decent signing in context. I'd like to see something at Wing or FB and I still wonder whether we are light one specialist prop but those are relatively minor issues now. We should have a very competitive side next season.
McLelland is not even in the equation, he’s gone simply not good enough.
I don’t rate Austin show pony nothing more, but agree he maybe a great fit with Sezar and Myler at full back, and also like to see Cameron Smith move to a more out an out ball playing 13.
Gale can fight for a place, up his game, or I suspect will take his bat n ball home and move on.
