NRL: 5 Players to Watch in 2010

As we get closer to the 2010 NRL kick-off, which players will stand out this year?

While the usual suspects will no doubt be there; Greg Inglis, Israel Folau, Jaryd Hayne and Benji Marshall-

What about new faces, big improvers and little known battlers that make good?

When we sat down to consider the lineups for 2010, we sought to pick out players of a lesser known degree, who we believe could make a high impact in this years Rugby League:

1. Jason Cayless (Wests Tigers) – A smart buy for the Tigers, Cayless is a proven match winner and a player with Premiership Winning experience. Cayless as a forward possesses the full range of skills. From the hard work, decent footwork and great hand skills – this guy can do it all. Only concern for Cayless remains his troublesome knees, but if he can remain health – he will prove extremely valuable for the Wests outfit.

2. Cory Paterson (Newcastle Knights) – Prior to being struck down with depression in most of 2009, Paterson was shaping as a genuine representative star. He was unusually fast for a larger forward and when played on the fringe, he was as damaging as anyone. Paterson has recently been able to give-up his medication and recent news suggests he has put the worst behind him. With a full pre-season under his belt and a faster, lighter frame – Paterson could achieve big things in 2010.

3. Sam Burgess (South Sydney Rabbitohs) – The English import was highly sought after for NRL 2010. Burgess showed just what he can do in recent Lions v Kangaroos test matches; and while the Pommies didn’t win – Burgess stamped himself as a hard to stop forward, with impressive stepping ability. A big change for Burgess relocating from the UK to Australia, but given the facilities at Souths and the continued improving standard of the English Super League – Burgess should have immediate impact on the NRL 2010 competition.

4. Kevin Kingston (Penrith Panthers) – Kingston wanted desperately to stay with the Eels for 2010, but while the Eels too wanted him – salary cap kicked in and the solid hooker was forced out. Kingston showed at Parra, as he did at the Sharks before that just how good he can be. Kingston only needs a full season as the lead rake to prove beyond doubt what he can do. Tough, rarely injured and possessing a great ability to sniff out a try – expect big things from this guy, especially at Penrith with the unstoppable attacking prowess they possess.

5. Liam Fulton (Wests Tigers) – The returning Liam Fulton has a big point to prove. When the Tigers hit salary cap pressure prior to the 2009 season, they immediately looked to push Fulton out the door albeit temporarily. Fulton has always been an elusive player with an array of creative options, but there is so much more to offer for this guy as he develops into an experienced package. Given some additional bulk on his frame which should come with the Steve Folkes fitness regime at Wests, with a decent amount of match time – Fulton could really prove a standout in 2010, watch this space.