SAINTS had interest from both hemispheres for the head coach’s post — and that is understandable given that they are champions, boasting a roster coming into its prime and playing in front of five-figure crowds at a well-appointed modern stadium that they own.

But chairman Eamonn McManus and the board were never going to stray very far in making this appointment after watching Keiron Cunningham backing up an immense playing career by earning his spurs as an assistant.

The board have put their faith in Saints’ first locally-born head coach since fellow Thatto Heather Alex Murphy ran the team between1985 and 1990.

McManus said: “Keiron is ready for this professionally and totally committed to the task ahead of him.

"He has been heavily involved in the success of this season and is ideally placed to carry it on for years to come.

“He is highly respected by the players. Not only does he understand our culture, he has been instrumental in its development since the inception of Super League.

"Everyone at the club is totally behind his appointment and enthused by it.

“The challenge ahead is an extremely hard one since the competition will be stronger next season and beyond.

"Keiron has the experience, ability and strength of personality to readily deal with it and will receive all of our support in so doing.

“His appointment will result in both continuity and stability within the club. We have a strong, young and exciting playing squad and are well-placed to compete at the highest level for many years ahead.

“CEO Mike Rush, Keiron and myself have now worked together at the club in one form or another for 14 years.

"We understand the town and the club and their highest expectations. We will together continue to do our very best to meet them.

“The identity of his coaching assistants will be separately announced in due course.”

McManus's views were echoed by CEO Mike Rush, who worked in tandem with Cunningham as acting coach in 2012, with the pair coming desperately close to guiding that team to Old Trafford.

“Keiron is a legend of the club, was club captain and has a statue outside – and has worked under some of our most successful coaches in ourgolden era.

“Both myself and Eamonn McManus are delighted to appoint Keiron. He is a local boy who understands the culture of the club and the recent success, having been part of it.

“It is a massive honour for us to have Keiron Cunningham as the next head coach of St Helens,” said Rush.