CURTIS Sironen showed what Saints had been missing during his recent absence with a hamstring injury.

The powerful second rower was a tower of strength on the edge on both sides of the ball - and as well as toughness, he showed the subtleties within the armoury of his skillset.

The latter saw him flick out a magnificent offload for Saints' opening score by James Bell.

The giant Australian also drove over for a well-taken try in Saints' 26-12 over the Salford Red Devils. 

Coach Paul Wellens highlighted what Sironen brings when he is on the field.

He said: "I think you saw what we're missing when he's not there.

"He's a unique back rower in terms of back rowers in the Super League competition.

"A 6 foot 4 or 5, big strong ball carrier. I thought he was very close to our best player today."

St Helens Star:

Wellens says he set the former Manly packman a challenge over consistency as the year has progressed.

"I spoke to Curtis at length at times during the season and I thought he finished last year as the best back rower in the competition and has the potential to be the best back rower in the competition week on week," Wellens said.

"His challenge is to go over and perform consistently well over a period of time because, as you saw today, when he does he is a handful."