SAINTS could see some benefit from the changes to the loan system approved and announced by the RFL Board yesterday.

Although Dual Registration, where players can go week by week to a partner club, will still not be permitted, the minimum length of a loan period between clubs has been halved from four weeks to two.

This could allow players on the fringes of the first team some much needed game time without the risk of being unable to call on them should injuries or suspension strike.

Without reserves or dual reg a good chunk of the Saints first team were without competitive matchday rugby until the Salford game late in the season.

It may be something Saints would consider early on the campaign - if injury free – but the situation would become more problematic once the season rolls into the tough, back-to-back games of the summer where rotation will be key.

Any loans are subject to lateral flow testing prior to entering the new environment and repeat testing where necessary - in addition to the wider requirements under the Covid Protocols.

Players will also be permitted to move between teams at the same club (eg Academy to First Team); and from professional environments to international environments.

The latter will therefore allow the England team to meet up during the season.

Again, at this time, the only permitted movement between the Community game and professional clubs will be new signings, and scholarship players.