Eastmond stays at Saints

(GETTY IMAGES)

Kyle Eastmond, one of the emerging stars of England's Four Nations campaign, has signed a new two-year contract at St Helens.

The 20-year-old half-back, who played against Australia and New Zealand in the tournament, had been linked with a possible switch to rugby union while he tried to negotiate an improved deal at Saints, but he has now committed himself to his only senior club.

Saints' Chris Dean, meanwhile, is to remain at the club on a slightly different basis, becoming one of the first players covered by the new dual-registration system. Dean will be available for both Saints and their Championship neighbours Widnes.