The lads in the academy are under 18's. Whilst Bateman (and previously Sam Burgess & Leon Pryce) has shown it is possible to break into the team at such a young age, most players start to appear in the first team at 19/20 and usually have to wait a season or two before they establish themselves as regulars. Throwing the under 18s into the first team could end up being detrimental to their long term development.

I agree with that, I'd sooner be using our (limited) funds to re-sign James Donaldson than keep Sibbit. He's clearly a better long term proposition.

Similarly, I'd sooner take a punt on Liam McAvoy than spend money on giving Phil Joseph another year

i think it there is doubt we should keep our good youth but it will be hard with our financial position at the moment but would be great if we could keep hold of our young players. look what wigan have done with there youth, they are fantastic now, its all about the development, yes they had a bad season with a very youthful team but the more these young ones play together the better team connection. which is what leeds had bringing burrows and mcguire through. I would be surprised if we came through this financial blip without losing top quality youngsters.

Benny signed a 2year extension earlier in the season

I'd take Paul Johnson if the price was right. He's still young for a prop and I've seen a lot of potential in him the few times I've seen him play.

Funny really, reading about who we might sign for next year.

In our dreams....