St Helens chairman has his say on Kristian Woolf

In order to top outgoing St Helens boss Justin Holbrook’s Grand Final success in 2019, Saints had to bring in someone that could dominate for years to come.

Chairman Eamonn McManus has found just the man: Kristian Woolf.

Back to back Grand Final victories alongside a Challenge Cup success in 2021 has elevated the Tonga national coach to legendary status at the Lancashire club already and McManus has hailed his impact.

“He brought in his own personality, which is pretty straightforward and uncompromising, very tough and honest,” McManus told the Saints TV podcast.

“That is reflected in the way we play and the results that we get – that’s proven to be the case.”

The St Helens chairman did, however, praise the squad for their ability to adapt to different coaches.

“We relish tough games and finals, but I don’t think our opposition do – we’re a team now who the opposition don’t want to play against.

“He (Kristian) has stamped his own personality on that and the players on day one responded positively to it and continue to do so and we will continue to do so next season.

“There is a natural degree of confidence in the squad regardless of the changeover.”