Paul Rowley: St Helens head coach leaves club with immediate effect

St Helens head coach Paul Rowley has stepped down from his position with the Super League club with immediate effect less than a year into the role.

The 51-year-old joined the club before the 2026 season, having previously taken charge at Salford Red Devils, ending his tenure there after their financially-challenged 2025 campaign.

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

They have also lost six of their past 10 games in all competitions with Rowley’s departure announced prior to Friday’s derby against Wigan Warriors.

“The decision was an extremely difficult one for all concerned, and we fully recognise the extra challenges that Paul faced with us this particular season,” chairman Eamonn McManus said.

“We as a club must now look forward and do all within our powers to preserve our position as the most successful club in the history of Super League and to restore our position as a silverware contender going forward.”

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

Former Ireland international O’Carroll played for Wigan, Hull FC and Widnes before going on to coach with the Vikings after his retirement.

Having had multiple spells as assistant at Catalans Dragons, O’Carroll has also been head coach at Newcastle Thunder and Bradford Bulls.

More to follow.