Andrew Dixon is the latest academy prospect lined up on a long term deal as Saints keep churning out quality players into the first team.

Dixon is supposedly rated higher than Matty Ashurst, who has found his way into first team regularity this season. Allied with Scott Moore's impending return, established players like Clough, Roby and Graham, Ashurst and Dixon are more fine forwards signed up for building a pack to support some of the most exciting backs in the game.

But half back is now an area which must be providing a real headache.

What to do, what to do? Well, there are a few options for Saints. Matty Smith has been told he is to expect a decision on his Saints future by the end of July. In terms of ability, there is no doubting Smith has it. He may lack that little zip to be the very best half back, but he has been key to Saints winning games in the past, and there are few better kickers of the ball.

In all the news of snapping up the youth on long term deals, Kyle Eastmond is the one with the most to prove. His contract runs to 2010, and for sometime, he has been seen as Long's natural successor. He has that little extra that Smith lacks, something deep inside him that rugby brings out. Rumours amongst fans regarding his attitude, and various suggestions connecting Saints to players like Danny Brough and Michael Dobson have left fans wondering if Eastmond is likely to be representing Saints next season.

Mick Potter, the man best to trust, alleviated rumours slightly by suggesting that Eastmond will get game time in the first team, and be allowed to move into the halves to get used to it.

The final option, and maybe a contingency plan if Eastmond does fail to make the step up is Gary Wheeler. His impressive debut season has seen him earn a new contract, and step onto the field in various positions with great effect. If needed, there is no reason he cannot adapt his natural position of stand-off to play at scrum half, he's covered just about everywhere else.

The half back issue will rumble on, but to have the choice of three highly promising youngsters really makes it hard to moan about the club.