I thinkpeople are now starting to really appreciate just how good Withers was.

I never questioned how good he was.

Nor me but it's really been driven home lately

Allways appreciated Withers massive contribution, if i had the choice of fullbacks over the last 10 years, Withers would be my man, that includes the far inferia Brent Webb!

I wouldn't put Crookes in that deep yet, FB isn't Sykes' "favoured spot" anyway is it?

Whether Full Back is Sykes preferred position or not he won international recognition at Quins playing FB, and is in my opinion better suited there than Platt, he is clearly finding his way at centre as was proved last year in a Bulls and England shirt where his failings were all too often pointed out, so why play the kid out of position? I also believe Crookes is a better option than an out of position Full Back in the centres, and if he's good enough etc. I don't see Leeds holding there kids back, but that's a whole different thread!

I'm all for Macca's versatility philosophy, but as yet it's unproven and round pegs and all that, Platt for me just isn't learning, I think he's had a fair go and his concentration and decision making are a liability at FB 2 seasons after signing.

Finally yes we have been blessed with great Fullbacks including Mumby, Spruce, and Withers et al, which is why our current shortcomings are so obvious....

I don't understand where you are coming from here, Sykes had been playing centre for London/Quins for a few years before we re-signed him.

Withers was a great player, but not as good as Spruce IMHO. To say that Webb is far inferior is daft.

I thought that. He left Bradford as a full back and gained international honours playing centre at London/Halrequins.

I disagree IMO Withers was better than Spruce.