http://www.theaustralian.com.au/spo...os-talent-crisis/story-fnca0von-1226587188819
Steve Renouf's plea: get Israel Folau back to stem Brisbane Broncos' talent crisis
Dan Koch February 28, 2013 12:00AM
FORMER Test centre and Brisbane legend Steve Renouf has implored those in charge to do "whatever it takes" to lure Israel Folau back to the Broncos next season, fearing his club is facing a previously unimaginable crisis in its playing stocks.
Recruited from Melbourne at the end of 2008, Folau showed why he is one of Australian sport's most sought-after commodities, scoring 37 tries in just 38 matches during his two years in Brisbane.
Following a lucrative, though unfulfilling stint in the AFL, Folau opted against returning to the NRL this season, instead choosing to sign a one-year deal with the NSW Waratahs for this year's Super Rugby season.
Renouf said Folau remained a "rare talent" and urged Broncos coach Anthony Griffin and football operations manager Andrew Gee to make it a priority to have him back in Broncos colours next year.
According to Renouf, Brisbane heads into the season with its stocks of backline talent at an all-time low and little in the way of promise for the future. "The strike weapons just aren't there anymore and I think it could really become a major issue for the Broncos if something major isn't done to address it," Renouf said.
"A huge amount of talent has been allowed to leave ... and it now looks like they are in the position of simply being unable to replace that departing talent.
"Outside of Justin Hodges, who is coming to the end of his career, it is hard to see where the points are going to come from this season."
The loss of Dale Copley (knee) for the season was a blow for Griffin given the cloud over winger Jharal Yow Yeh, also on the long-term injured list.
But Renouf said questions needed to be asked about how players such as Folau, Greg Inglis, Gerard Beale, Antonio Winterstein, Reece Robinson and boom youngster Dane Gagai had been allowed to slip through the club's fingers.
"I can't remember a time when the club had so little strike out wide ... Think of guys like Wendell (Sailor) and Lote (Tuqiri), Willie Carne, Michael Hancock, Brent Tate ... Brisbane's backline has always been a strength."
There is still conjecture about the best backline, with Corey Norman's most effective spot up for debate.
While Griffin has indicated Josh Hoffman would again start the year at fullback, former Test halfback and commentator Greg Alexander suggested it was time for a rethink.
"They need more out of the fullback position than they are getting from Josh Hoffman ... Corey Norman would provide a bit more of what you need there," Alexander said.
"With Norman at the back and Scott Prince and Pete Wallace in the halves - in those three you have the sort of spread of attacking options you need in today's game."
Even Liam Georgetown's uncle is concern.