SAINTS scrum half Danny Richardson produced his best game yet on dual reg with Leigh Centurions - playing in the win over Swinton with a smile on his face.

The 2018 Super League Dream Team half back, who has been displaced in the first team by Theo Fages, had understandably initially struggled to adjust to his new surroundings.

But the 22-year-old Widnesian had a pep talk from Leigh boss John Duffy in the build-up to last weekend’s game - and that helped do the trick.

“I just made sure, off the field, I was in a better head space,” said Richardson.

“I thought if I could get that right the rugby would look after itself.

“I had a good chat with ‘Duffs’ and he reassured me about a few things. So, I was able to let the rugby look after itself.

“Now, I am 100 percent feeling better and usually when you feel better and feel good the two are linked.

“I felt a lot happier and had a smile on my face out there in the middle.

“The year I had last year, to have that taken away from me was hard to swallow.

“It’s tough for a young kid to deal with.

“However, you can sulk and moan all your life.

“I just thought crack on and enjoy myself playing for Leigh. Winning makes it even more enjoyable."

Having given the first crack to Fages - and seeing the Frenchman respond well - makes it difficult for Richardson to get a way back in.

But he is concentrating on what he can control - his own game.

“I had multiple conversations with Justin,” he said.

“He has picked his team and they are five out of five and on top of the league. So, what can you do?

“I am just trying to get back to enjoy myself and my rugby.”

Saints loan prop Luke Douglas did not play at Leigh at the weekend due to a virus he picked up.