I'm more positive about Laffranchi than most. However I'm also open to reason. We had a debate about him earlier in the year and I said at the time as a 2nd rower I would keep him over Flanagan. But basically we have no idea as to what position he has been signed.
It was put to me that on the money that he's getting we could get the same elsewhere for cheaper.
I don't think this year has been his best year, but he was not too shabby last year for a man playing above his weight, he could handle most packs bar the Wigan and Warrington Pack. This year it seems to have caught up with him and other packs have got on top of him.
He seemed to switch to the back rower in his last game, but then picked up an injury. I think it was the Leeds game and he was pretty effective as a sub for Manu's side.
If I was going to hold any of the off contract players it would have been TP. but I don't think we can afford to do that now with Laffranchi also signed up as that would limit our options. We still need 2 big yard dog props. You have to assume one will be overseas.
I'm not about to run about saying woe is Saints, but neither will I be running about throwing my hat in the air. It's a bit of an erm signing till we see what else is coming (or not).