Ben's back!

[Baz]

I'm delighted to see that BY could be back for the Saints derby; Sam Harrison should be congratulated on the great job he's done.

[Tiger93]

Will Ben be worth rushing back in at a risk though with how well Harrison has done and Simmons' positive impact from the bench?

Save him for now id say.

[ellis9]

What makes you think he has been rushed back? He has just recovered quicker than anticipated. If he is fully fit, you don't leave such a top class player out of the squad at this vital stage of the season!

[Tomvarndell]

I'm not sure about Simmons making much of a positive impact from the bench. He's merely come on in the dying stages and barely been noticeable apart from one poor kick into touch. Harrison has been running himself into the ground lately due to not having a proven replacement and long term that wouldn't be ideal. At least with Ben sitting on the bench we can replace him at the ideal time opposed to waiting for him to cramp up like Saturday.

[ourla]

1) Youngs needs to get fully up to speed in case we make the play offs. As good as Sam has been we will need Ben if we are to go further in the competition.

2) Harrison looked very tired at the end of the Bath game and could do with being on the bench physically.

So I think he should and will start. They have been bullish about his recovery all along so if they say he's fit I see no problem.

[Bunchy]

Expectation is that he will bench, with 2 week training build up to Newcastle to follow.

Any stupid accusation of being rushed back is nonsense, it was an injury that required immobility initially and then rest followed by strengthening..... he has followed that protocol. The club would not risk him, it’s that simple.

[Coops]

I suspect they may start Harrison and bench Ben?

[Tiger93]

Stupid accusation. And that is why these boards are littered with guests who never sign up.

Simmons has been good IMO.

If Harrison is knackered then yes bring Ben back in. Wonder how many will be on his back very quickly though for things they let Sam get away with...

[BFG]

Agree Tiger93!
I understood your original post, there is fit and there is match fit.
The team appear to be building a decent understanding.
I expect the two senior 9's to share an important role in whatever order the coaches see fit at the time.

[Tiger93]

Ive never been so chuffed with our 9 stocks. White and Simmons are brilliant guys to bring through for all the AW games and drip feed in other comps. Give it 4 years and the pair of them will be our 9 and 21 regular and both have eyes on England recognition.

[BFG]

I still think the two youngsters have a very long way to go and there are a lot of very good players all over Europe.
They have a good chance but it'll get harder from here!

[jgriffin]

I don't think many on here appreciate that other team supporters and neutrals are very impressed by Shazam. He could make a fortune in France, they like fast combative 9s who can kick and play 10 at a pinch.