Re: Rumours and signings v9 : Sat Feb 22, 2025 1:47 pm  

Phuzzy wrote:

I don't think we'll be signing anyone Jon. There are 3 genuine first teamers currently looking to fill the 2nd row berths and a couple very promising youngsters who will need game time. Since Isa's retirement, it's probably our thinnest position for squad depth but not so much that I think they'll feel the need to add a body purely for cover. There's also the option of running Eckersley there in training as additional cover, as well as a couple of mobile props who could drop into the back row at a push. I think both Byrne and Dupree have had spells there.

Thompson can play 2nd row if called upon.
We also have some good young lads who can fill in.

Re: Rumours and signings v9 : Sat Feb 22, 2025 2:56 pm  

At least one new face in 2026 is a must imo. New faces, especially the right ones, keep everything fresh & continue to move the needle.

Who that person is or, more importantly, who they'd replace however isn't a straightforward decision.

Re: Rumours and signings v9 : Sat Feb 22, 2025 4:27 pm  

Surely it would be Hirst to come in at second row next? I think he is back at Oldham on loan but not sure if he's training with us as well? He is almost 24, a good 3 years older than Nsemba so should be ready for first team.

Re: Rumours and signings v9 : Sat Feb 22, 2025 6:22 pm  

Wigg'n wrote:

Surely it would be Hirst to come in at second row next? I think he is back at Oldham on loan but not sure if he's training with us as well? He is almost 24, a good 3 years older than Nsemba so should be ready for first team.

He’s only been in the pro game for 12/18 months and full time environment for 3 months.

It wasn’t too long ago he was plsying for Armondbury Spartans in the Yorkshire Men’s league.

I’d be surprised to see him this year.

Re: Rumours and signings v9 : Sat Feb 22, 2025 6:30 pm  

I could see Tyler Kerr maybe getting a crack at second row at some point. He looks a natural 13 but he's versatile and sometimes you need to take your chances where they come, a bit like Morgan Smithies did before then moving to loose forward.

Re: Rumours and signings v9 : Sat Feb 22, 2025 6:43 pm  

It doesn't look like Chan will ever make it with us.