ST HELENS have issued a media release slating former club stalwart Jon Wilkin – hinting at the idea of legal action – over comments he made as part of his work as a TV pundit.
Shortly before CEO Mike Rush departed the Super League club a week ago, Wilkin said during a Sky match coverage: “the club needs change and there will be change at the top level of the club. I look back to last year and the Paul Wellens sacking, how that was dealt with … they ground Paul down to the death then told a club legend he was going, they knew he was going in the summer.
“They told him if he got to the grand final he would have a job and I don’t believe that to be true. A decision had already been made to bring a coach in. Mark Percival signed a contract in August last year that’s gone missing and all of a sudden, he’s on the out.
“Things need to change at the club if that’s how they operate and look after their people. It’s not good enough in any workplace; that’s simply not good enough. Mark Percival has put his body on the line for this club, been one of the legends of this club and I just think they need to look after their people better.”
In Wednesday’s statement, the club said: “St Helens RFC strongly disagrees with and objects to certain comments made by Jon Wilkin during his live TV punditry on Sky Sports after the club’s first Betfred Super League match of the season against Warrington Wolves on Friday, 13th February 2026.
“The comments made by Jon in relation to dealings with former head coach Paul Wellens and current player Mark Percival are inaccurate and are categorically refuted by the club.
“They were fundamentally incorrect and are damaging to the name, professional reputation and business of St Helens RFC, one of the most valuable brands and businesses in world rugby league.”
A phrase often used in relation to legal action – “We reserve our position on the matter” – is then included.
The statement continues: “It is only after careful consideration and having taken professional advice that the club has reluctantly decided to make this announcement, particularly given Jon’s previous long and distinguished career as a player and as a former captain of the club.
“We also deeply value our longstanding professional relationship with Sky Sports.
“St Helens RFC will make no further public comment on the matter.”
Wilkin played 424 games at Saints between 2003 and 2018.