Morgan Knowles on the move to NRL: why the St Helens player isn't thinking about Australia.

The experience of Morgan Knowles before his move to NRL

According to The Sun: Morgan Knowles, who was born in St Helens, is determined to leave St Helens on a positive note.

This is no joke. After a regular season where fans criticized the players and questioned coach Paul Wellens' decisions, he understands that three wins can change everything.

Morgan Knowles insists his thoughts are not on Australia while planning a dignified exit from St HelensSWPIX.COM

Even the thought of leaving Merseyside in winter for summer in Queensland does not distract him as he moves to the NRL Dolphins.

As he notes, St Helens is truly a sunny place.

Knowles, a native of Wulverstone, says:

“I live in sunny St Helens, so I avoid the wet and cold Wulverstone in winter.”

“There are a few things to sort out before I move, but this year I am focused only on Saints and playing well.”

 

“I try not to let these things distract me from what’s most important, which is to finish on a high note.”

“It’s not the easiest task, and it brings some stress, but I have a very supportive wife who takes care of the kids and everything else.”

Attitude towards criticism and pressure before playoffs

“We are both very excited about the move, but she knows I need to get my job done here for Saints first. I don’t want people to think I’m already looking ahead to next year and pondering that.”

 

“That’s definitely not the case. I’ll deal with that when I get there.”

The Saints need to pass tough tests to win the Grand Prix. After finishing fifth, they start the playoffs with an away elimination match against Leeds, whom they already defeated 6-0 in the regular season.

At times, some say 2025 would be a failure, and coach Wellens is being pushed towards resignation.

However, as the 28-year-old player knows, achieving at Old Trafford, especially winning there, can change everything.

Knowles’s performances as a loose forward secured him a spot in the Super League Dream Team 2025SWPIX.COM

Knowles adds:

“Obviously, there are things that aren’t right. It’s something to deal with as both a coach and a player, as that’s unavoidable.”

“Paul doesn’t bemoan himself, and I don’t bemoan myself, but he knows it’s going to be hard work as expectations are very high.”

“While there were moments when we were very good, there were also times when we were criticized – the pressure is a privilege.”

“We know what awaits us. That’s what happens when you play for a top club. So the beauty of the playoffs lies in winning a few matches and reaching the final.”

Knowles moves to the NRL DolphinsSWPIX.COM

 

“This year will be forgotten. Even better if we can win.”

“Defense is key at this stage of the season; it will bring victories in competitions. It’s the platform and foundation.”

“Then players like Jack Welsby, Jonny Lomax, and Tristan Sayers will get their chances.”

“The question is whether they will take those moments. That’s where big games are decided.”

 

“And I’m not ready for a move to Australia. I hope to have three more weeks with the boys to wear this shirt a few more times.”

Morgan Knowles is preparing to finish his time at St Helens, focusing on significant playoff matches that may define his career. Despite his upcoming move to the NRL Dolphins, he emphasizes the importance of staying focused on the current season. For Knowles, it’s crucial not only to achieve success with the team but also to leave St Helens with good memories. With a strong performance in the playoffs, he can leave his mark in the club's history and take a step into a new phase of his career in Australia.