You're not wrong there. As an Ulster fan its so frustrating. The issues we have encountered (for me) are:-
1. Overseas investment- Bryn Cunningham shouldn't be in a job in my opinion. For example, two of our permitted NIQs have played a handful (if even) of games this season. This stream of South African players has produced the odd gem but its not sustainable or successful. I think Coetzee could have a breakthrough season next year if this knee surgery is (finally) dealt with properly. Rumblings ive heard are that it seems to be down to a botched op rather than general fitness concerns.
Jordi Murphy, Marty Moore & Will Addison show a definite change in recruitment. Start cutting down on the Mercenaries/Journey men and look for players who want to be playing for an international jersey!
2. Stagnation of young players coming through - Leinster's academy is literally the pinnacle of talent production in the Northern Hemisphere (and possible the world!). The numbers are staggering. the Ireland squad had a ridiculous number of Leinster players under the age of 25. Whilst Stockdale, Robert Lyttle, Nick Timoney & Johnny McPhillips offer a rare glint of hope, there seems to be a drop off where young players struggle to make the jump. Last weekends match at Edinburgh was the first in a while where the coaching team blooded a few younger players (Tom O'Toole, Matty Rea, etc.). Maybe a change in their approach is requried?
3. Jackson/Olding - No-one could have predicted the impact of losing two big players. Jackson is the key man here and pulls the strings. Without wanting to get into the daily debate that goes on here.... safe to say, we need them back or a player in to fill that gap. Chat of Mallinder coming to Ulster - possible JJ Hanrahan return? wouldn't be my choice of Out-Half though.
How do we fix it? well if i knew that id be applying for the job!
