Looking forward to seeing the new signings, Ritson and Bruines. Both come with little expectation I guess as neither are establish players in the top division, but will be interesting to see how they both go, if they make it into the first team. Also the return of Lewis Dodd could be revolutionary for Saints. I think his absence massively affected us last season and we could go up a gear this year if he comes back and finds his feet, although again probably got to temper expectations given how severe an injury it was.
The introduction of Wellens, Talbot and Frayssinous in the coaching team will also be interesting. Saints defense has just been too good for the rest of Super League for a few years now, as has our fitness levels and intensity. Will they be able to maintain that whilst also improving the attack, which is their stated aim this season? Who knows, the potential is there for it to go either way. I wouldn't be surprised if we're back at Old Trafford, I also wouldn't be at all surprised if we find it hard to adapt and Wellens 'does a Cunningham' and we're nowhere near.
A few other things I'm looking forward to in Super League generally. Can Warrington finally make it work? They've thrown the kitchen sink, the baby and the caravan at it this year. They also have the potential to be anywhere from 2nd bottom to Super League champions. Huddersfield are the dark horses I feel, but Wigan really should be improving on their dismal end to last season. They can't spend more than half a million on two star players and not make the final again, surely? Leeds are confident they'll be champions, but I'm not sure Rowan has the players at his disposal. Perhaps a season or two early for them.
