The latest rumour from the player merry-go-round is that Gareth Widdop will return to St George Illawarra in 2021 in a swap deal that will see Corey Norman head to the Warrington Wolves in the English Super League.
While this sounds like a good idea, is it really what the Dragons want?
On the plus side, Widdop has been a success in the NRL, notching up nearly 200 games and around 1000 points. In addition, he has played over 30 international matches and has a proven track record as a leader.
In a team that will lose experience now that Graham has retired and Tyson Frizell is on the move to the Knights, Widdop’s composure under pressure may be just what the Red V need as they try to rebuild. His influence on spine players Ben Hunt, Matt Dufty and Cameron McInnes would be important, as would his ability to aid the development of younger players.
The fact that his arrival would see the departure of Norman is also a positive. Many judge Norman to be inconsistent, however I would describe his performances as consistently mediocre.
From a salary cap perspective, it would be a like-for-like replacement, which is preferable to having to contribute to Norman’s remaining contract for 2021 if he is merely punted from the club.
On the negative side, it could be seen as a step back in that it sees the Dragons failing to utilise their crop of younger halves looking for an opportunity. Specifically, if Widdop returns, presumably for at least two years, one or more of Adam Clune, Tristan Sailor or Jayden Sullivan may move on, leaving no readymade replacement when the Englishman retires.
Further, at age 32 in 2021, it could be argued that Widdop is now past his best. He has had some significant shoulder injuries in recent times and his form since returning to England has hardly been up to his usual standard. Can he still perform at the top level?
Ulitimately though, it’s worth the risk as he is a far better option than retaining Corey Norman.
matth
Roar Guru
Thanks bitter Knights supporter.
Parasite
Roar Rookie
As a supporter of another team, couldn’t agree more mate. We need a strong Saints side like a strong eels. Young Sailor looks the goods.
Andrew
Roar Pro
Hopefully Sailor’s performance has killed off this Widdop rumour once and for all.
Tony
Roar Guru
He's a big hit at mad Monday celebrations though.
no one in particular
Roar Guru
Elliot is a very average footballer
Andrew
Roar Pro
Official! Paul Vaughan is out replaced by Kaide Ellis
Andrew
Roar Pro
Breaking News! Paul Vaughan may me ruled out of tonight’s match with the roosters he broke Covid-19 protocols by visiting a cafe & giving a false name. FFS
Andrew
Roar Pro
*****BREAKING NEWS****** Paul Vaughan may be ruled out of tonight’s game against the Roosters for breaking COVID-19 protocols. He apparently visited a cafe. FFS
Andrew
Roar Pro
Oops I meant Dylan Brown
Andrew01
Roar Rookie
Is it that obvious? Is Widdop a better player than Norman - most would say yes. But if Widdop is going to be on the sideline because his shoulder isn't up to it, then you obviously want Norman - (unless you want to pull a Souths - sign Widdop to trade Norman and then "medically retire" Widdop to free up the cash for what you need)
Andrew01
Roar Rookie
Dylan Walker will never wear an Eels jersey.... or any jersey other than Manly. I don't think any club wold want to touch him.
Rossi
Roar Rookie
Lawrie plays too many minutes as it is, I don't rate him at all.
jamesb
Roar Guru
At 1.85m and 106kg, he is not big or small either. Michael Weyman was 1.85m and 113kg. Out of the fringe fowards such as Host, Kerr and Ford, Lawrie is the one that is a bit more consistent.
Tony
Roar Guru
No Dragons' supporters ever have their hopes up
Andrew
Roar Pro
Wouldn’t get your hopes up Tevita Pangai Jnr is contracted until end 2022.
Andrew
Roar Pro
I don’t mind Adam Elliot as a player I think he’d be a handy pickup; 25yr 185cm 103kg He’s from the south coast as well, Bega
max power
Guest
lawrie? hes too small and can not bend the line
Tony
Roar Guru
He'd be a great pick up Andrew. He'd also bring some much needed aggression to the Dragons' pack.
andrew
Roar Rookie
Barry, Tevita Pangai Jr would look good in the RED V. I live on the Gold Coast and I heard rumours about a month ago that there were a few disgruntled players at the Broncos. This i heard from a couple of Broncos members, whether it's true or not remains to be seen.
mushi
Roar Guru
People forget how maligned the dragons were prior to Widdop, but the injury risk is too high. Even if he were cheap you have to build the team around him. He's unfortunately too (unintentionally) disruptive. I think if his body held up you'd have different McGregor coach narrative.