Smith: We want better than okay
TONY Smith is setting the bar high after delivering a frank verdict on the off-contract players on their way out of Hull KR.
KR’S season ended abruptly on Tuesday after three players tested positive for coronavirus and several others were forced to self-isolate due to track and trace protocols.
For the eight off-contract players told they will not be kept on beyond the end of the year, it meant an exit by the side door.
While Smith is grateful for their efforts, the Rovers head coach admitted his side need more as he spoke directly about Nathaniel Peteru, arguably the best of the bunch after the resumption.
“Nate is on the lookout for a role somewhere,” Smith told the Mail. “We felt that whilst he’s done OK, we needed someone than OK.
“We need to change some aspects of what we do on the field and we need people who can do that. We’re looking around for the appropriate people to make a difference.
“Part of my communication over the next few days is to thank people for their efforts and for what they’ve done for the club.
“It’s not the sort of way we wanted to say goodbye to one another but that’s been taken out of our hands.”
KR are in the process of shaping their squad for 2021, with several new recruits expected including Leeds Rhinos youngster Muizz Mustapha.
Rovers have 28 players officially signed on for next year, although it remains to be seen whether those returning from loan spells have a part to play under Smith.
There are question marks over a number of underperforming players to do a bit more but Smith is willing to give them the benefit of the doubt after a hugely challenging campaign.
“Most have had a mixed year with some shining brighter than others,” he said.
“It has been a difficult season to judge people on. There’s been some incredible challenges for each of the individuals in different ways.
“Some have some shone brighter and we’re hoping some will shine bright in the future as well.
“We always knew that. Some of these guys are young guys who are developing and we see them as prospects for the future.
“It wasn’t necessarily that they were all at their peak. That’s what you have when you go with young people.
“You hope they develop and sometimes it’s through some harsh lessons. We got a few harsh lessons this year and they’ll be better for that next year.”