I'm with Earl,
I can't see us buying our way out of this in the short term though so we need to make a couple of good strategic signings with a view to them providing the lift we need to develop the likes of Stefano, Pole and Co. I think we have started OK with th two we have recruited so far.
You are on the money with Brooks/AD/Laurie.
My gut feel is that Hastings will play lock in defence and be the organising half in attack. We will see AD (or his replacement) and Brooks playing either side. This, touch wood, will give us attacking opportunities that will suit the style of play that Sheens is hinting at. I expect that this is a 2023 construct that will be the building block for 2024/5 (should it be successful).
We still need another quality forward and a couple of backs. Emphasis has to be on leadership if we intend to develop from within.
Cheers n Beers
Jolls