ST HELENS interim coach Eamon O’Carroll paid tribute to former boss Paul Rowley after confirming he is set to remain in charge for the remainder of the season.
Rowley left his role as head coach on Thursday, just a day before their clash with fierce rivals Wigan Warriors.
O’Carroll will be leaving at the end of the season to move to Welsh rugby union club Scarlets and he is going to honour that deal, but has told St Helens he will do whatever they need him to do until that time comes.
“I have to say we are all thinking of Rowls (Rowley). Obviously, we are disappointed and we wish him and his family all the best moving forward,” said O’Carroll.
“It all happened really quickly. We came into our last training day on Thursday, myself and (fellow assistant) Lee Briers were told of the situation. It was a whirlwind really, before we knew it we were taking charge of training and then here we are.
“They (the club) said until the end of the year, so that’s what I’m planning for. Ultimately, I want the best for the club, so if things change and the right man is available now and he comes in, I’ll certainly step back into my assistant role or I’ll do whatever the club needs, essentially.
“I owe that to them. They’ve given me a wonderful opportunity to come here. I’ve got some great, great friends here. I care about the club, I care about the people here, so my job is to service the club and I’ll do whatever’s needed.”
On the game, O’Carroll was proud of the effort his players showed in their 38-16 loss, but he wants them to kick on now and try to secure a place in the play-offs.
“I couldn’t be any prouder of the group for how they responded against some adversity before and during the game,” added O’Carroll.
“I asked them for effort and intent and to be desperate. I thought we showed loads of signs of that which is fantastic.
“We can build on that now.”