St Helens head coach Royce Simmons has left the Super League club with immediate effect.

Pressure on the 51-year-old had been mounting following the Saints' 12-8 defeat to the Bradford Bulls on Saturday, making it the club's fourth loss in a row.

The North West club have appointed Keiron Cunnigham and Mike Rush in place of the former professional hooker.

Chairman Eamonn McManus said: "Our season has got off to a difficult start and it is best to make change sooner rather than later. We have every faith in Mike Rush and Keiron Cunningham. They each know the club inside out and have all the experience together to take us forward.

"I would like to go on record to pay genuine tribute to Royce Simmons. He is a fantastic person, and of absolute character and integrity, who has given everything to the club.

"I am sure that everyone at the club joins me in thanking him sincerely for all his work and dedication and to wish him and his family well for the future."

Simmons, who joined St Helens last year, has been at the helm of the club's worst ever start to a Super League season.