With Super League nearly upon us the excitement increases.

I think 2002 teams are more evenly matched in mid table. I reckon Saints and Catalans to battle it out for top spot and Toulouse need a minor miracle to stay up but positions between these are very close and injuries across the season could well decide final positions. To this end it will depend on squad strength to a major degree. How do you see your own particular side in this respect.

I agree the mid table could go any way depending on luck or lack of. As far as hudds goes I see hooker as our only weak spot. If we were to lose both of AOB and Levi we are going to struggle. otherwise a very good squad strength wise with lots of options.

Wigan's back row depth is unbelievable.

Things remain to be seen how we cope at centre this year again, signs were promising from the Wire friendly at least.

Saints squad depth has been increased enormously with astute signings that can play in a few alternate positions. But further depth has been complimented by the quality of the Academy players now good enough to be in a 21 man squad. In our friendly game against a very good Leigh side our last quarter of the match we played 10 academy players and there was very little drop off in structure and intensity.

I'm not sure if other teams in the comp have this luxury when an injury crisis bites.

leading in, it feels like it is a really open top 6 really.

A new era of competition?

Nah Saints, Wigan or Leeds will win it as normal.

Our depth is probably what gives me the greatest hope that we could have a good season. We’ve blooded that many kids these past couple of years, we could probably be 7 or 8 players short of a full team and not see a huge drop off.

Unfortunately on the flip side our first 17 probably isn’t strong enough to trouble the Grand Final. Maybe one or two of the younger players can take that next step and make up the difference. We’ll see on that score and I certainly have more hope now than under Lam.

I think than once all players are fit Powell will have stronger options in the bench and players missing out of the squad than price had.

However were a bit unknown with the new players coach and without hill. A lot will depend on if the squad buys into Powell's ideas and we can build into the season.

It is good to see reading through that a lot of teams seem to be bringing through some exciting prospects who are getting more game time and really impressing. Wire have a few who this year should be looking to establish themselves as first team players and giving Powell and the board some tough choices to make.

Totally agree with this. No other team in the comp comes close to St Helens starting 13, or their squad depth.

If St Helens dont win at least one trophy this season it will be a massive failure