In response to rumours that Hull KR was interested in the Bradford Bulls prop Eribe Doro, Willie Peters has acknowledged that he has his eye on the player. Earlier this week, Rugby League Live reported that the strong forward had become a transfer target at Craven Park.
The 23-year-old Doro is impressing in the Championship, and the Robins are taking notice, as they can add to their pack in preparation for the upcoming season.
When questioned about the forward, Peters acknowledged that both the team and he were interested in him.
“I can tell you I’ve had my eye on him and I’ve watched him play,” Peters replied. “I like what I see, but once more, given where things are at, I can give you more in a few weeks. However, a few years ago, while I was in Australia, I took a look at Eribe. He’s a talented player, and I’ve followed him in the Championship.”
Recently, a number of departures have also been verified. After joining his loanee team, the Castleford Tigers, Louis Senior has permanently left the team. Meanwhile, the RFL’s off-contract list has confirmed that the Robins will not be giving Matt Parcell, Reiss Butterworth, or Harvey Moore new contracts.
“Louis has been great,” Peters said, beginning with Senior. I’m happy for him because he wanted to start and play more regularly for the first team, and it’s a great opportunity. This year, he was not under contract. It was one of those instances where we were unable to extend a contract to him, so we discussed the possibility of an opportunity. Cas gave him that chance, and he has seized it whole.
It’s encouraging to see that they are succeeding, similar to a few players who left last year. In order to give them contracts with other clubs, we prefer to inform them in advance. We are aware of our plans for the following year, so please inform them as soon as possible if they are not included.
Regarding Parcell, Peters continued, “Matty will have to decide whether to play for this club for a longer period of time or for another Super League team. However, we had open and sincere discussions last year. Both of us have been aware of my whereabouts. He continues to be an important part of our team, and they have had open discussions.”
Peters stated that the club was now looking to sign a new hooker to compete with Jez Litten for a spot in the squad, given that Butterworth was also leaving.
“We’ll undoubtedly require a hooker. In the coming weeks, more information regarding our recruitment space will become available. We’ll be considering how to add a few more and what that entails.
Although it’s never easy for coaches to let go of players, Peters is eager to act in the players’ best interests when making this decision. This entails informing participants early on so they have time to look into deals elsewhere.
“It all forms a part of my work. Each person is unique and will require a unique approach. My strategy is to, if we do find out, let the players know.
Being open and truthful with the player about their current situation would be my strategy if we decide internally to take a different course. Players have a great deal of influence over their managers, so it’s a two-way street. However, if the club decides to go in a different direction, it gives the players the chance to find employment with a different team.
“The last thing I want to do is withhold information from a player if I know it, because that would be bad for everyone four weeks before the season ends. I won’t feel like a very good coach if they don’t get hired when I can tell them months in advance. Even though it’s not always easy to make calls, players can still have other opportunities even though it may not be pleasant to hear that.”
