Paul Rowley: The St Helens head coach has left the club with immediate effect

St Helens head coach Paul Rowley has resigned with immediate effect after less than a year in charge of the Super League club.

51 years old Joined the club His tenure there ended before the 2026 season, having previously taken over at Salford Red Devils, following their financially-challenged 2025 campaign.

Since joining Saints, the club have struggled for form and are currently sixth in the table and six points behind Leeds Rhinos due to an injury crisis.

They have lost six of their last 10 games in all competitions with Rowley’s departure announced ahead of Friday’s derby against Wigan Warriors.

Chairman Eamonn McManus said, “The decision was an extremely difficult one for all concerned, and we fully recognize the additional challenges Paul has faced with us during this particular season.”

“As a club we must now look forward and do everything in our power to defend our position as the most successful club in Super League history and reclaim our position as silverware contenders going forward.”

Assistant coach Eamonn O’Carroll will take over on an interim basis, the club said, as it praised Rowley for his achievements during a challenging period.

Former Ireland international O’Carroll played for Wigan, Hull FC and Widnes before becoming coach with the Vikings following his retirement.

After multiple spells as an assistant at the Catalan Dragons, O’Carroll was also head coach at Newcastle Thunder and Bradford Bulls.

More to follow.