Is James Webster .

While he has good experience, got to say I'm still completely baffled by this whole project, he won't be cheap so that goes against what most of us think the idea is, a cost cutting venture.

Overall I still can't help but feel it's a shame that we're binning our current youth set up just when it is bearing fruit for the first time in years. 3rd in the table with a chance of a trophy and the players who have broken in to the first team this year look ready for SL.

It's still a fkn terrible idea.

Hudgell must be laughing his head off at this deal.

I know no one is in favour of this idea.

Anyway I'd just like to wish him well in his new job.

Why? Which established first team players have you produced recently.

Hadley, Shaul and Abdul have all come through recently and played plenty of games.

Then their is Logan and Lancaster, who have played a few.

Consistent games for Downs and Fash.

Think you also forgetting that it takes times to get your Academy right and we are now finally seeing the benefit after 3 years of hardwork and investment.

Coming from you, that is hilarious.

Thanks for that, not sure how many could be considered established first team players though.

Yes it does take time and we are still behind you but have made progress. This is recognised by most people other than a few of your contributors who like to get in the snide remark. Still if it makes them feel better.

Despite the appalling investment in youth under the previous regime, we've still managed to do alright under pearson without the 'help' from those well-known youth producers Hull KR.

Potentially after Friday night, 10 debuts in two seasons: Lancaster, HTW, Turgut, Downs, Logan, Fash, Matongo, Abdull, Osborne, BTW.
2013 it was Hadley & Shaul.
2012 Cunningham, Bowden, Lineham, Crooks, Green.

Probably a couple more I've missed too.

Thanks for another snide remark.

Debutants are one thing, especially when they are in the squad because there is no one else available. Going on to be proven first team players is something else altogether.

When you have a production line like Leeds, Wigan or Saints you might have something to crow about. I don't see people on their forums belittling other teams Academies. Maybe they just don't feel the need.

good,fair and impartial appointment. The ginger ninja has served both clubs i wish him well

It's a pleasure.

The point you missed regarding the trend in our debutants is that they're flowthrough following an increase in youth investment since Adam Pearson took over in 2011. Barring Chris Green on that list, all are early twenties/teenagers who are still in their early stages of development as SL players. Why, if Pearson's investment is starting to pay dividends, would merging with your 'good' academy be a good decision?

Leeds, Wigan or Saints aren't merging their juniors with an inferior setup. If Leeds merged their academy with Wakefield, I reckon there'd be a few belittling comments from Leeds fans.