St Helens promote youngsters

St Helens have given contracts to seven academy players to promote them into the first-team for 2017.

Aaron Smith, Liam Cooper, Jonah Cunningham, Ben Morris, Josh Eaves, Rob Fairclough and Matty Lees have all put pen to paper on deals.

Hooker Aaron Smith, 20, has agreed a 12-month contract. Academy Captain and back-rower Liam Cooper, 20, has also agreed a 12-month contact.

18 year-old hooker/back-rower Jonah Cunningham has agreed a 12-month contract.

Fresh from playing twice for Wales in the World Cup qualifiers, 19-year old Ben Morris has also agreed a-12-month contract.

Hooker Josh Eaves, 19, has signed a two-year contract with a one year option.

Scrum-half Rob Fairclough, 19, has agreed a two-year deal with a one year option.

Prop Matty Lees, 18, has also signed a long term deal.

Saints Head Coach Keiron Cunningham said: “All these players played very big roles in the successful Academy Championship winning side last season and we are looking forward to seeing them develop further in the first team system at the club.

“Each are valuable additions to the squad and as with our younger players historically we will have no hesitation in handing them their debuts when they are ready for action.

“Congratulations to each of them and praise is also due to the Academy coaching staff and volunteers, as well as the players’ families for playing a big part in their development.”