I think a lot depends on who leaves in 2022 and the development of our youngsters as to where we’ll need to strengthen. Coote, Naiqama and Fages are all out of contract but we could theoretically replace them with Welsby, Simm and Dodd. That’s if they al leave and if the youngsters are ready to step into a starting role. It’s a big if though. The real area of concern is hooker, Roby can’t go forever. We’ve seen enough of Smith to know he’s a decent option but nothing special. Eaves has shown glimpses of potential but needs more game time to show whether he’s a long term option. I’m not sure whether we’ll need a marquee prop, depends on how Paasi settles and how Lees/Norman develop. Wouldn’t be surprised to see Walmsley, Paasi, Lees and Norman as 1st choice props in 2022 with Amor backing up for another year.
Forwards win games. The backs decide by how much.
I'm not sure marquee is the way forward.
Barba was closest thing to that and was needed at the time in a broader sense given the club
had pretty much gone to war with the fans. Hollbrook was a healer and Barba was some glitter. It worked.
The current squad has depth and layers. Norman is a good sign. The other signings fill the right holes and add to the right areas.
Marquee is a premium priced feel good factor to kick start a revival , not to try and develop a dynasty.
I like the model of internal youth plus development signings , topped off with non marque overseas.
OOC
Kev N and Coote - Simm and Welsby viaing for their spots.
Amor/LMS - Norman & Batchelor fighting for their spots , supplement with the next Norman,
Roby ? - Eaves and Smith have a 12 month audition. I only see one of them long term.
I would target Danny Walker from Wire if he doesn't get game-time and Fages isn't seen as the answer.
Overseas-wise I would keep and eye on Ryan King, Dylan Morris, Lachlan Walmsley at Whitehaven to see how they go.