Originally Posted by
borat
Burns is really only effective upfront, and considering we are well stocked there I don't think he is value for money on the wages he would demand.
I am happy to back Merrick to recruit a foreign #10 from outside the HAL. Burns, FBK, Nichols and even Carrusca are not up to this position or worth the marquee $$$ we will throw at it. Merrick has a pretty good record in foreign recruitment so providing we have enough $$$ I am happy for this to be an unknown player. The only current #10 in the HAL that would be worth going after is Martinez imo.
To fill the wide attacking position, vacated by Hoole, there are a few Australian players worth looking at imo. Am ruling out your Burns/Kruse type players because they are just not realistic. Will be in the cap but a good salary you would think.
First player I would go for, who I think is realistic, is Mitch Duke. His contract is finishing at Shimzu, has just had a baby and got married over Xmas. Lawrie went to his wedding. Would be a goal threat out wide without needing to be a striker.
Another realistic option, and dare I say it, but maybe go back to Mark Bridge if he is fit. Played out wide and not as a striker I think he still has something to offer, if not for the stupid money Jones wanted to sign him for
My fallback, if all fails, if Mitch Austin. I don't think he is as bad a player as people make out and might flourish in a team where he has less pressure to get a starting role.
Other recruitment options.....I think we pass on Nichols. His form last season was dire so unless we are desperate then I reckon it's a no.
Wayne Brown will fill a starting position and it will be 8/6 or the attacking right role.
Back up DM to replace Poljak. I doubt it will be a star and imo we are nailed on to sign Vince Lia. Been coached by Ernie previously at the Victory and Nix and seems to be leaving Wellington. Another option maybe worth pursuing imo is getting Mitch Oxborrow back.
CB to replace Mullen - Would love this to be Jacob Tratt considering Merrick gave him his first start in the HAL as a senior player. Another option is Poscoliero, who seems to be Perth bound.
