SAINTS boss Justin Holbrook expects full back Jonny Lomax’s future to be decided within the next week or so.

The England number one is out of contract at the end of the year which, combined with the imminent arrival of Ben Barba on a two-and-and-half year contract, prompted some speculation about his future.

But Lomax produced a stand-out performance from full back on Friday night, having a hand in three of Saints’ tries, to underline the qualities he still has to offer.

Holbrook said: “There’s no rush. Jonny is comfortable here, is loyal to the club and the club has been loyal to him through some tough times.

“That will all get sorted in the next few days to next week. We are more than happy for him to stay and he is more than happy to stay.

“Unfortunately, he has had some long-term injuries and the club looked after him and he wants to look after the club. There is no reason to think any different.”

Lomax had blown off a few cobwebs the previous week at Castleford after an eight-week lay-off with a leg injury.

But he was outstanding on both sides of the ball against Vikings, showing the sort of play he produced in the latter portion of 2016, to earn praise from his boss.

“He is a committed trainer and committed player,” Holbrook said.

“I’m glad he showed some of his class against Widnes. He has just got to continue with that.

“We love Tommy Makinson and what he does, when he charges the ball back (from full back) and he is a great runner.

“But Jonny has the skills of a half and that is what you want to come out of the back.”