Anyone that thinks that Paul I will ever play for us again is delusional. With the horrendous injury he incurred, his age he has no chance. It is a great pity but that is unfortunately ( in my opinion) the way it will turn out.
Don't see why not on a reduced deal if he doesn't take up an import slot.
Delusional is a bit harsh. Overly hopeful probably better describes it.
I think he was showing some pretty major signs of age even before the injury, it did look like that quickness which helped him beat players had gone or was at least close to going. I think we/NZF needs to move heaven and earth to keep him involved somehow because he's been the best thing about the Phoenix over the past 5 seasons and he's so good on TV and in the media.
However he was still significantly better than Stein at beating players with the ball at his feet and when he came on as an impact sub changed the momentum of the game. A type of player we don't have at the moment. And possibly doesn't exist in the A-league- Broich? Hard to think of another winger/forward who is such a devastating dribbler and finisher. Hard to see where he would fit with Ernie's game plan of quick ball movement and quick players, but if Watson or his ilk is who we would sign instead worth a little more time. Heck I would have had Greenie in the squad last year if he'd wanted to play.