Jon Wilkin on Paul Wellens’ extension after ‘alarming’ St Helens silence

Jon Wilkin has opened up on St Helens’ decision to give Paul Wellens another year at the helm. Saints confirmed the move in a statement by the club on Wednesday.

The statement saw Wellens explain his desire to kick on and chairman Eamonn McManus discussed why he is continuing to give Wellens backing.

Wellens has taken somewhat of a hospital pass since 2023. On the back of four straight Super League titles, he landed the job after the exit of Kristian Wolf.

You could argue that the legendary full-back was on a hiding to nothing. Things started well with a famous World Club Challenge win in Australia but Saints have since failed to make three major finals in a row.

A five-game losing streak this term also led to calls from fans to relieve Wellens. But Saints are backing Wellens to guide the club to a better future and have identified a rough injury record in 2024 as a main reason to give Wellens more time.

Speaking to Sky Sports, former Saints teammate turned pundit Jon Wilkin shared his thoughts.

“We’ve been given an exclusive by St Helens this afternoon. They have extended Paul Wellens through until the end of the 2025 season. The silence has been alarming around that contract extension.

“That led to speculation that Paul Wellens wouldn’t be around. He’s had a very tricky 2024. They’ve won four out of the last five titles. They have been decimated by injuries and suspensions this season.

“Paul Wellens has had a tough time of it but he’s been given another 12 months to prove he’s the man for the job. After a couple of good performances going into the Magic Weekend, it’s a nice time for Saints to announce that. But great news for Paul Wellens and good news for Saints.”

St Helens face Wigan Warriors in the Super League at the Magic Weekend next up.