As Tim Sheens and the Hull Kingston Rovers hierarchy prepare for life in the Championship, their former Super League counterparts are circling the Lightstream Stadium like a wake of vultures.
Despite going down, the Robins boast a number of Super League quality stars in their squad who will no doubt attract attention from those that remain in the top tier.
Ideally, Rovers would love to keep the majority of their squad intact as they go in search of promotion at the first attempt, but it might prove impossible to keep these five players at the club next season.
Shaun Lunt
The first name that springs to mind is the former Huddersfield and Leeds hooker.
Although he has played in a struggling team, Lunt’s class has shone through all season and he is regarded by some as one of Super League’s best hookers. In fact, one of Hull KR’s shortcomings was their inability to get Lunt, Terry Campese and Albert Kelly on the pitch at the same time.
While the futures of the aforementioned halfbacks are murky for various reasons, Lunt will almost certainly attract interest from other clubs.
Iain Thornley
An understated member of the Rovers team, the centre is a player of proven Super League quality.
A Challenge Cup and Grand Final winner with Wigan in 2013, Thornley is still only 25, which makes him that bit more lucrative to other clubs.
A number of coaches are looking for more strike in the centres, and Thornley fits that bill.
Josh Mantellato
A prolific goal-kicker with a good try-scoring reputation, Mantellato would be a valuable addition to most squads.
Although injuries have resulted in a frustrating season for him individually, a return of 34 tries in 44 games for Rovers proves how good he is.
Hull KR have a big job on their hands keeping the Italian international at the club.
Adam Walker
Walker is a powerhouse in the front-row but is deceptively good with the ball in hand.
Without Campese, Walker was used as the first receiver at times throughout the year, with Albert Kelly playing on the back of his distribution.
With so many different attributes, Walker could prove to be a useful signing for many clubs.
Maurice Blair
Rovers’ player of the year is a dream for many coaches.
His versatility has seen him play all over the pitch under James Webster this season, playing in the back-row and in the halfbacks.
Beyond his flexibility, he is also very talented, and will no doubt attract interest.
