Was visiting the wife in hospital after the latest Junior Robin was born 2 weeks ago and got talking to the husband of the woman in the next bed. He lives in Brough next door to Mick Vella and was telling me that he was returning to Australia at the end of 2011. This was a conversation he had with Mick a few weeks ago.

If that is the case, who would we get to replace him? Would we miss him that much? He's done a fantastic job for us but I beleive he wasn't as effective on the field last season as in previous years. Good luck and thanks Mick if you do go.

His contract is up at the end of the season so it wouldnt be a major surprise.
He will be looked back on as a great signing but hopefully we are still to get a big year out of him in 2011

I peresonally think this will be his swan song, so lets hope for a wembley apperance for him

Has been a great servant, took what some would call a risk in signing for the newly promoted team

He's been great for us but I also think this will be his final season. If he goes he'll be well remembered.

Bit of an understatement there IMO. Vella's been great for Rovers, a real catalyst of your resurgence.

True. It is an understatement.

[quote="Mrs Barista"]Bit of an understatement there IMO. Vella's been great for Rovers, a real catalyst of your resurgence.[/quote]

stick this in your index mrs b

i 100% agree

Seriously, getting Vella's signature was a big deal as a signal to other overseas players. First couple of seasons was great. Even with dodgy knees he's a workhorse and has a turn of pace. Of all the Rovers players attempting to catch Tom Briscoe in the 44-18 game he had the best go even chasing back 70 metres. A bit niggly at this stage in his career, but arguably the most pivotal player in Rovers SL tenure thus far.

and in all honesty i wasn't being sarcastic, he's been an underated signing