Super League coach reveals what is holding back immediate signings

We have seen Leeds Rhinos and Wigan Warriors announce big signings for next year lately but it is Hull KR who have made the real headlines with the immediate signing of Brad Schneider.

Another example of the club’s brilliant recruitment having signed former Warrington Wolves man Peta Hiku for next year as well as Oliver Gildart and former Castleford Tigers and Hull FC target AJ Wallace from Bradford Bulls.

But Schneider is very much a signing for the immediate term and will be a major boost going into the rest of this season.

They are not the only team looking for major signings mid season with Castleford still looking.

However, Andy Last has revealed what is holding the club back in terms of making immediate signings and the club’s stance is commendable.

“We’re always looking, but like we’ve said before we need to make sure that if we recruit somebody, he fits what we want, you know, he doesn’t block somebody’s pathway, that person can impact and help the team in the here and now, but also help with regards to the culture and what he wants to do off the field and also on the field,” he said.

“So, you know, when I’ve said previously about there’s nothing out there, I mean there’s been nothing out there for us.

“And what we’ve done is, we’ve remained patient and we’ve made sure that the players that were brought in like Riley Dean and Jordan Johnson are going to help us in the here and now. What we didn’t want to do was bring in players in a short-term state, which impacts on your long-term decision.”

He also explained the draw backs of signing someone for short term gain: “Well, we’ll get him in now and you pay him an absolute fortune and you tie it into someone who was on an absolute fortune for a couple of years and their motivation and desire may not be where it needs to be.

“So we’ve been really, really conscious of making sure that we make the right decisions and make sure that the players that we sign can impact and help us in the present but also don’t impact obviously with your future recruitment.”