St Helens recruit Howes

RUGBY LEAGUE

St Helens prepared for the advent of the Super League by appointing the former Rugby League official, David Howes, as chief executive yesterday.

Howes, 43, was the RL's public affairs executive for 20 years before setting up his own consultancy last year. His clients include Courage, Newcastle United - the football club who are interested in forming a rugby league team - and the English Basketball Association.

"Saints are the only club to have finished in the top eight every season of two-division football," Howes said.

"It shows the level of consistency and shows the capability of the board of directors, who have always been very ambitious," he added. "But the club has been the bridesmaid almost throughout the last two decades, so there's obviously a vital ingredient to be found."

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