KYLE Eastmond has given coach Royce Simmons an assurance that, whatever happens in the weeks ahead, he will remain committed and focussed on doing his job at Saints.

The quicksilver scrum half fuelled speculation that a decision on his future was imminent – with a switch to Bath still the expected destination when his contract expires in October.

We are still waiting for the puffs of white smoke to appear, but in the meantime the coach has sat down with Eastmond, who, as scrum half, carries a huge responsibility in the side.

Simmons said: “I talked to him the other day and asked if he does leave, what sort of attitude he would have for the rest of his time here.

“He says his commitment would be 100 per cent to the club.

“If he is producing on the field I know the players will get behind him and hope the fans will do likewise if he is giving 100 per cent, like he guaranteed me he would.

“I can’t see why you would not play your heart out if you are going to a code where you are trying to establish yourself.

“The first thing an international coach would be looking at would be his attitude.”

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The decision is out of Simmons’ hands – but that has not stopped him from trying to persuade the 21-year-old Oldhamer from staying.

“I am just concentrating on coaching the side and in doing that making Kyle a better player.

“I told him a few weeks ago the reasons why I think he would be better off staying here, in rugby league.

“I went through those things at length and told him I could improve his game. I have done all those things three times now so have just got to leave it with him now.

“I don’t want him to go but if does, we will get on with it,” Simmons said.