Exactly
@getsmarty. Most of the unwanted are seeking multi-year contracts, Tracey being a prime example. Imagine if we had done what our last 2 regimes had done and willy-nilly signed up these players. Simple answer is that we wouldn't be in a position to even begin talking with the likes of AFB, Deardon and others.
Yep, ther's no guarantee we'll even land them, put the point that we have te space and the $$ to do so, speaks highly of our resolve to not sign the "journeymen" that previously polluted our ranks.
Some scoff at the signing of Eisenhuth, and on paper not a signing to warm the heart, however, it's a 1yr deal, he's been told he may see less than 10 games in First Grade and his job is to help our young guys coming through KOE Cup. His experience coming from the Storm will be vital in educating these guys.
Half our current squad is off-contract in '24, and no-one is falling over themselves to "get in early" on these players. So, some will need a big year, whether they are re-signed or simply released.
I'll make a comment on Bird at this point. Agree with most thinking that he hasn't delivered, however, in saying that, he hasn't been fit, and neither have all our players. Bird knows what Flanno wants and expects. He knows the new fitness staff aren't going to 'go easy' on any player, Bird included (his knee niggle is, imo, a direct result of this) If Bird wants to play centre, then he knows the level required, he knows if he doesn't, he'll get turfed. So, I reserve judgement on him and all players until we can see improvement in fitness and strength.
FFS - Faster, Fitter, Stronger.