St Helens have a plethora of future stars currently excelling in their first team, with the club’s reliance of youth certainly paying off.
From Noah Stephens to George Whitby, the Red Vee are building something special for years to come, but the conveyor belt is by no means stopping.
Tom Humphreys made his Super League debut on Thursday night against Hull FC, replacing Daryl Clark for the final few minutes of the game for a moment he will never forget.
Cole Marsh was another who could have made his first senior appearance at the MKM Stadium after being activated as 18th man, but he didn’t take to the field.
Perhaps the big positive of all Saints’ injuries this season has been the reliance of youth, and their integration to Super League rugby has not only been prosperous in the past few weeks, but it will bode well in the long-term too.
In that win over Hull FC, eight academy products featured, showing just how fruitful their youth setup is.
One man who has been a breakthrough prospect for Saints over the past 12 months is Harry Robertson.
Making his debut in July 2024, the 2025 campaign saw him feature primarily in the centre, as he scored 15 tries in 25 matches.
This season, whilst his try-scoring form hasn’t been as impressive, he continues to impress and did so again against the Black and Whites.
Crossing for the final try of the game, he bagged his first of the season in the win as his prolific form continued.
His efforts this season has earned him praise from boss Paul Rowley, who has been surprised by how professional Robertson is both on and off the field for such a young player.
Asked prior to the game against FC what he has made of the 20-year-old’s efforts this year, he said: “He is a star. More importantly though, he’s a great character and he’s a team player.
“This club and all clubs have got individuals. But I think what’s more impressive is how he’s integrated himself and been selfless in the way he’s got about his business for the team.
“That reflects everybody in the group, really, and we’ve needed it to be. That’s what’s got us to this point so far.”
