St Helens not distracted by Justin Holbrook speculation, insists Tommy Makinson

Drew Darbyshire 25 Jul 2019 10:26 AM

Tommy Makinson says St Helens are going about their business as usual, despite their coach Justin Holbrook being linked with a move away from the club.

NRL sides Gold Coast Titans and Canterbury Bulldogs are keen on Holbrook’s services, with the Australian out-of-contract with Saints at the end of the season.

St Helens face Halifax in the Challenge Cup semi-finals at Bolton on Saturday, and winger Makinson insists the squad are unaffected about the speculation surrounding Holbrook.

He told loverugbyleague.com: “It’s just business as usual for us if I’m honest.

“Justin is an unreal coach and if there was anything going on then he’d tell the lads whether he was going or staying.

“There’s a few NRL clubs struggling and they are looking at Justin’s record and they want him. It’s just like when a player is doing well – they attract interest.

“Justin is an amazing coach and whatever comes his way – good on him. He has really helped us so I’m looking forward to whatever happens.”

Makinson’s game has improved rapidly since Holbrook’s arrival at St Helens midway through 2017, with the winger being crowned the 2018 Golden Boot winner.

The 27-year-old – who is hoping to make the Great Britain squad this autumn – has scored 29 tries in 54 games for Saints since the start of the 2018 campaign.

Makinson added: “Justin is awesome, he’s not one of the lads because he’s really professional.

“He’s a really good coach but he is down to earth as well. He’s humble, when you need telling off then he will tell you off but you can speak to him when you need to.

“There is no wonder why NRL clubs are after him, he’s a wonderful coach and we are lucky to have him.

“Hopefully he does stay because he’s a coach I absolutely love playing under.”