I’m hoping that another full Super League and NRL season will see a number of young players play themselves into contention
We have the building blocks of a decent squad
Full backs: Tomkins is nailed on barring injury and I really like the look of Eden but next year may be a little too early
Wings: Any three from Briscoe, Hall and Charnley who are all a step up from recent English wings
Centres: Watkins could be a great centre – has athleticism and skill. Needs to tighten up his defence but in another 12 months he could be the real deal. Alongside him either Reed or Atkins
Stand-off: Widdop – performing at a good standard week in week out in a leading NRL team, not sure what more he has to do to get the number 6 jersey for England
Scrum half: Lomax – again in 12 months I think he will be capable of really bossing a game, already showing he can do this for Saints in spells. I would have had Brough in the squad last year but not as convinced now. Matty Smith may be a shout after a year at Wigan
Props: Rotating with Graham, Sam Burgess, Mossop and probably Chris Hill the way he is improving (although I think George Burgess will be a regular in South’s NRL squad next year, will be interesting to see if he can get fast international recognition like his brother)
Hooker: Roby nailed on and McIlorum the other specialist. At least one of Robinson and Burrow in the squad for cover
Back row: Ellis, Westwood, Hock and O’Loughlin
My 17 from that would probably be below but I hope that some youngsters push their way into the picture
Tomkins
Briscoe
Watkins
Reed
Hall
Widdop
Lomax
Graham
Roby
Sam Burgess
Ellis
Westwood
O’Loughlin
Mossop
Hill
Hock
McIlorum
