Don't believe the retirement rumours at all, just seems to be fan rumours with nothing solid at all backing it up. Dan Russell i know nothing about, but if Burgess see's something in him i'll trust that. He's a big guy, 6'4 and 16st so should add some punch, but no idea on his skill level? Burgess has made FAR more good decisions than bad ones so will let time answer the question on him.
I faintly remember Russell from the World Cup, he was the only ginger in the PNG line up in the game at the HJ. Like Tai, I think he will be cheap and I hope he doesn't become the scapegoat in the same way Rodrick has.