BRIAN McDERMOTT is unsure whether to take one or two halfbacks as cover for the World Cup later this year.
With George Williams being assured of the England captaincy for the tournament, that leaves just one other starting halfback spot and a plethora of contenders.
Harry Smith and Mikey Lewis were part of last year’s Ashes squad under McDermott’s predecessor Shaun Wane, while Jake Connor is back in international consideration.
There are also new options in Hugo Savala, the Sydney Roosters stand-off or centre, and South Sydney Rabbitohs playmaker Jamie Humphreys, who were both born in Australia but are eligible to play for England.
McDermott says he will bring at least three halves with them, and could possibly select four.
“Whether we take a six and a seven to back up the six and a seven that I have in mind to start, I’m still not sure,” McDermott said.
“We’re certainly going to take another half because we need to take another half.
“But if we take two halves as cover, it has an impact on how many covers we have for our outside backs, what cover we have with the back-rowers, what cover we have for the other spine members as well.
“Some of that will be to do with form and some of that will be to do with versatility as well.
“So if a guy can play in the halves, but he can also play at nine, I might favour that. But I am unsure yet.
“It’s a difficult one with the spine members because I’ve got to see them play in finals.
“I think everyone would understand who the spine members are going to be or what other players I’m choosing from. But there are another couple out there that the finals will reveal.
“Can they handle the big occasion? Can they handle the game when there’s so much on the balance?
“I don’t know if I’ve answered that question with clarity, but I’ll certainly be taking one half as back-up. Whether I take two or not, it’s not clear yet.”