On Connor I have always felt he plays well when there is a level of having something to prove. Generally I think he will do better in a bigger club with a lot of eyes on him and the club. Mixed with Arthur and his strict approach you can see him wanting to deliver.
He should be at his peak at 29, he isn’t quick and never was so his skills should be more rounded as he is older. Risky signing but if Newman and Connor are playing well and on board that is a good pair of difference makers out wide.

The signing was always going to happen, probably not super expensive and isn’t quota. Good depth and utility when needed. Would still like Mom to depart and to bring in another outside back from the NRL. I think it unlikely but maybe sangare and Warren out with Byrne from Wigan in would be an incredible off season of business

New 1 year deal for Mcdonell

Interesting to see who we go for . This failed move for Jock Madden , the Brisbane halfback , indicates the club wants more cover than Croft, Connor and Sinfield next season. 


Only 1 year for McDonnell is a bit odd but glad he is staying, he?s been good this year

McDonnell signed a 1yr extension 

1 year for McDonnell is interesting, I'd have been happy to see him sign for 2 years, but not a problem. Will be interesting to see what Bentley and the club do. I'd be offering Holroyd 2 years and Gannon 3 years.

In terms of a replacement for Frawley (who must be leaving) if we didn't sign anyone, our 4th choice halfback would probably be either Cam Smith (who I don't think is much of a field kicker, and lacks pace) or Fergus McCormack (who is completely untested at this level). That's a risk and why I think the might go for someone else. Perhaps the club also now see Jack as a future 9 rather than 7 in which case you can expect another decent quality half to be signed.

I like Croft. However, a club of Leeds' ambitions has certain expectations of a marquee half-back. 


Is Croft up there with the very best halves in the competition? While there have been glimpses and occasional game-breaking performances, let's be honest, he's just not doing it enough. He's no French or Lewis (at Leeds), not even close.


Is Croft up there with the best Leeds halves we've seen in recent decades? The answer is a firm 'no', but perhaps he still has time on his side, especially if the Arthur message keeps to bed in. Definitely behind the likes of Schofield, Harris, McGuire and Sinfield Snr. As good as Gale (factoring in Gale's kicking game)? Being better (at Leeds) than Sezer, Frawley, Sutcliffe, Austin etc isn't really the hallmark of the player we're looking for.


I would say if the price is right *and* a better player is available, we should move. These things are unlikely to happen though, and we're probably better off with him for now.