ST HELENS have announced the appointment of Joey Walsh in the newly created position of General Manager of Recruitment & Rugby.

Walsh, 37, originates from Saddleworth and has lived and worked internationally for the last 15 years but he has a history in the game.
He is a former professional who played for Harlequins RL and Huddersfield Giants.
He was part of the Leeds Rhinos Academy team before joining Bradford Bulls in 2006 on a one-year deal, playing for the Bulls at Academy level.
In 2007 he signed a two-year deal with Harlequins, playing six first-team games over two seasons.
While at Harlequins he played seven games on loan at Halifax in 2008.
He then joined Huddersfield in 2009, playing three games before joining Sheffield Eagles on loan, where he played a further four games before quitting professional Rugby League
Later in his career he brokered and advised on elite player signings in both rugby codes and in both hemispheres.
He also has expertise in strength and conditioning at elite levels of high performance sport.
“This is a new and essential specialist position at the club and is designed principally to improve our recruitment in the short, medium and long term at both senior and pathways levels,” said a statement issued by St Helens.
“Joey will work closely with new head coach Kevin Walters and other senior rugby staff to improve the personnel and environment within our squads at all levels.”
Joey Walsh stated: “I’m delighted to be joining St.Helens at such an exciting time for the club. Saints have a rich and proud history, a fantastic reputation and culture, and a clear ambition to compete for honours on the biggest stages of Rugby League
“I’m looking forward to working with the coaching staff and wider rugby department to identify, attract and develop the talent needed to ensure that the club succeeds at the highest levels both on and off the field.”