Paul Wellens appointed player performance coach at St Helens

Former St Helens full-back Paul Wellens has taken up the role of player performance coach with the Super League club.

The 35-year-old will be working alongside the existing Saints academy coaching staff to help with the development teams.

Wellens will also shadow the first-team coaches and staff as he continues to develop his new role, following a successful playing career with the club he has served for over 20 years.

Saints chief executive Mike Rush is delighted with the appointment of Wellens, who will continue his role as assistant coach with England.

Rush said: "Clearly, having someone with the knowledge and experience of Paul Wellens at the club is a massive boost. He is one of our most decorated players and instantly commands respect within the club and amongst the players.

"His experience will be crucial to bringing through the next batch of talent from our academy system that has been rated as outstanding by the RFL. He has already started work and I know all those in our junior set up appreciate his work ethic and knowledge."

Wellens has also joined Sports Coach UK's Aspire programme, a scheme which has recruited 22 coaches.

 "I'm really pleased to remain at the club and help nurture the future talent coming through the club," he said.

"I'm here to mentor and develop the youngsters to not only become better players but responsible and professional people too. I'm looking forward to working with Derek Traynor, Ian Talbot and all the coaching staff."