JACK Welsby employed the mind of an eight-year-old to turn down the riches of the NRL and stay at St Helens.
The full back could go into whatever club he would want Down Under and there were offers on the table.
But a bit of child’s play meant he said no and signed a new deal until 2027 in a huge boost for Super League.
“If you asked eight-year-old me, he wouldn’t be saying he wanted to play rugby somewhere because there’s more money,” Welsby said.
“He’d be saying he wanted to play somewhere he enjoys it, that’s why I’m staying at St Helens.
Schools at risk of closing as teachers prepare to vote on joining strike chaos
“I had to weigh up all the pros and cons and basically it came down to the fact I love playing for St Helens so much I couldn’t leave.
“There were offers and conversations were had here and there but it became clear there’s no path out.
“Once I knew it was St Helens, I pretty much shut everyone down and said, ‘I don’t want to know what money or other things you can offer. I’m staying at St Helens so let’s just leave it there.’”
Welsby and St Helens are dealing with two unfamiliar sensations – not being defending champions and not having retired legendary hooker James Roby to call on.
However, do not think Paul Wellens’ men are going to sit back and let someone else have control of top spot, especially after rivals Wigan took the crown to the other side of Billinge Lump.
And as a citizen of the home of the new champions - and a huge Wigan Athletic fan – Welsby is hell bent on getting back what they feel is rightfully theirs.
“It’s new but it’s exciting,” the 22-year-old added. “I’m looking forward to the challenge and maybe I’ll approach it slightly differently sub-consciously.
“And not doing it last year could be an inspiration, especially with Wigan being the champions. Hunting and chasing them down is another bonus.
“Now they’re champions and have taken our crown, it adds that extra. It had to be them.
“And it was never a thought to escape the Saints-Wigan derby. I love playing in that game and now I’ve penned a new deal, I’m looking forward to Good Friday already.”
Guardiola picks side on BODY LANGUAGE as he tells Foden why he’s been on bench
