Potentially he wont be here for years with the quota coming down, but one of the few players to impress this year.



Deserves another year without doubt.



We have so many other issues in the team, this obsession people have with the fullback position is baffling.

I agree but some of those may well need to be sorted by using Smiths quota spot and wage. It is not about the fullback spot for me, it is more about those other positions, but his contract and race count against him if we can bring real quality into other areas od the squad.

I accept that, but I see no evidence that we have real quality set to join us. I fully expect due to the quota rules, Phelps wont be here more than another 2 seasons.



That being said, he is the best fullback and the club and deserves to stay as long as possible due to his desire and pride in the jersey. Contrast that with Riddell/Fielden and I know who I would pick.

sadly though its not as simple as that. contracts must be honoured.

I know, but you understand the point I was making.

I agree but if we recruit two none federation trained players whether quality or not he will have to go. Same with Carmont.



If you want a quality prop and half back recruited, you can't keep Phelps as well.



What do people want most? To address the issues that most see as need addressing or reward an enthusiastic player? That is what it boils down to.



Dave

Yes but, its not really valid if the quality is available and contracts are honoured, sad but true.



Regarding Phelps he does give his all but that not enough for me, IF the quality is available. Were he at Salford or Celtic, Wigan fans would not praise him.

If we could sign Matt Orford & Dave Kidwell, then yeah, fine, Phelps will need to go, but if we are going for players at Darryl Griffin/Paul Johnson level then I will take Phelps everytime.

Phelps, what an absolute quality improvement he has made to our back line.



Yeah okay, we still conceding too many points for my liking, but I feel a hell of a lot safer with him at FB than anyone else in our team, including Pat.



Now we just need to tighten up the defensive line in front of him

Outshined Briscoe for me yday, and i know a lot of people would like him back.



Bottom line though is that if we can get a SH and PROP to come over from aus phelps will have to go.

He has to stay imo. He is safe as houses at the back and runs it out well. He gives it his all and we have bigger fish to fry then getting a new fullback in.



Long term we may look elsewhere but for next year he should be our number 1.

If Karl Pryce can get a contract, and Phelps doesn't, then the world has gone mad...