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St Helens head coach Paul Wellens has signed a new deal to remain at the Super League club for next season.

A club legend during his playing career, Wellens made 495 appearances for Saints before moving on to the coaching staff in 2015.

He served as assistant coach to Justin Holbrook and Kristian Woolf during a period of unprecedented success for the club as they won four successive Super League Grand Finals between 2019 and 2022 as well as the Challenge Cup in 2021.

Wellens took over from Woolf following the 2022 season and immediately guided them to the World Club Challenge with a stunning win over Penrith Panthers in Australia.

“I think it gives everyone that little bit of clarity around what happening next year, there was never any doubt in my mind," Wellens said.

“I walked through the doors here as a 16-year-old in the juniors, and I've never wanted to be anywhere else.

"I'm well aware that the job that I'm in now, is a job that is a huge privilege and one that many, many coaches in the rugby league world would love to have. I'm grateful for the opportunity that I've got here and I'm going to continue to work hard.”

During 2023, Saints fell short of retaining their Super League title for a fifth successive season but did finish level on points at the top the table, eventually finishing third and missing out on the League Leaders' Shield on points difference following a remarkable regular season campaign.

However, 2024 has been a difficult season for the club, with Saints struggling with a large number of injuries.

Wellens has currently guided his side to fourth in the table as they contend for a play-off place with the end of the season in sight.

“Paul has had to deal with a squad shorn of many of his star players for much of 2024. He deserves an opportunity to prove himself under better circumstances for the balance of this season and next, and to bring success to the club," chairman Eamonn McManus said.

“We will also be looking to improve and strengthen the squad in certain areas for next season, as well as strengthening the coaching team supporting Paul.”