Looks like he needs a good pre-season and he is about to get that with Wigan.

Seen lots of criticism of King’s defence but I think it along with his ability to offload in traffic has been maybe his strongest trait during the World Cup.

My main concern is his pace, or lack of.

Whilst speed is coachable to a certain extent it’s something you tend to have or you don’t.

He has had opportunities during the pool games for Ireland to attack Soave and he has looked a little lethargic and not taken full advantage.

A 1 year loan could turn out to be a godsend because hes been terrible for Ireland every game. Slow with terrible defence. Hopefully Peet can bring the best from him but if he doesnt we have options moving forward.

All valid points re:- King but it's still a better option than Isa and we did ok with Isa in the side, plus, he hasn't linked up with us yet and won't have a clue of what is about to hit him. His performances will not have gone un-noticed by Peet. He is about to get a rocket up the preverbial.

I'm sure that's true and in fairness Wigan and Peet have always been very upfront that they feel King is underperforming and that they can help him turn the corner. But if it was a choice between the King of the last few months and Ian Thornley I'd be picking Thornley.

With a one year loan are we stuck with the player for the full season or can we end early if so desired?

Timing has nothing to do with it.

Gildarts last good season was 2019.

Based on Thornley’s injury record that won’t be a choice so it’s irrelevant.

I agree, however those waters have have been muddied by injury, lack of form and being unable to force his way into the West Tigers team (and a poor one at that) on a consistent basis. Whilst I wouldn't be tempted to pay marquee wages for him he'd be worth a punt on the right money.

I'm really happy with our recruitment for next season, but two things stick out like a sore thumb;

1 - King has the potential to be a real weak link, in what is a strong defensive side. He's going to be getting some attention in the big games and that isn't good for us. And;

2 - Our quota management has really hampered our ability to either go abroad, or sign a non fed guy from SL. Isa and Miski have their roles in the side and, if they didn't count on the cap, I'd be loving them. Sadly they do and having two cap spaces wrapped up on squad players is scandalous.