IT was no surprise to hear St Helens have already targeted Hull KR captain Michael Dobson as a potential solution to their half-back problems, given the current financial uncertainty at the Robins.
Unfortunately, statements coming out of any club regarding finances set alarm bells ringing around the world of rugby league – and the vultures start circling.
There is a real danger that other teams see the recent comments of chairman Neil Hudgell – in which he has said he and vice-chairman Rob Crossland are not prepared to fund the club alone next season – as a green light to try and gain quality players on the cheap.
It will also set agents running in terms of looking to ensure their players are not left high and dry come the end of the season.
With all that in mind, I am sure the KR players will want clarity on the club's off-field position as quickly as possible.
They will want to be a part of a club moving forward as opposed to standing still – or perhaps in danger of disappearing.
I believe though that Hudgell and Crossland are simply looking for investment to drive the club to the next level, not because they are in dire straits.
Administration is no threat in my eyes to KR, given Hudgell and Crossland are both life-long fans.
This should give them the strength of position to hold off any clubs that come calling, and if Saints have been on the phone, I am sure they have been told Dobson is not available.
Dobson has a contract with KR for another season, and with regards any sale of any player under contract it's in the club's hands.
Dobson has remained loyal to Rovers through everything – including agreeing to being de-registered during the Willie Mason saga.
I expect him to remain a KR player in 2014. He is an integral part of the team on the field, he's the leader on and off the field and the team is to be built around him.
If Rovers are ever to get to the next level both Hudgell and Crossland so desire, he needs to remain. Likewise, I'm sure the news of Cory Paterson's contractual clause – in which he is effectively a free agent should coach Craig Sandercock leave, has other clubs on alert.
He is a quality player and has proven to be a really astute signing.
Any other Super League club would see a player like him fitting into their team, as I am sure they would Josh Hodgson, Kris Welham and David Hodgson.
I am sure they would all prefer to be at the Robins next season.
However, the club has to give them clarity as quickly as possible to ensure they are comfortable with the club's position and their own future.
