SAINTS CLEAR THE DECKS

Saints have withdrawn contract offers to both players after talks failed to reach agreement.

The reasons differ wildly, however, with Smith desperate to return home to Australia while Hammond's financial demands are considered too high by the club.

Ian Pickavance could also be on his way after the club told him to sign the deal offered to him by the end of the week or it would be withdrawn as well.

Football operations manager Eric Hughes said: "Karle's offer was withdrawn on Wednesday because the situation had dragged on for long enough and we were still a long way apart. Now both parties know where they are going.

"Damien has been keen to go home for quite a while and it would be unfair of us to keep him here when he's so homesick. You can't get the best out of a player when he's domestic circumstances are not settled.

"We are keen to bring talks with Ian to a conclusion and have asked him for an answer."

Paul Anderson and Joey Hayes are expected to find out if they will be offered new contracts within the next few days.

The pressure to persuade Smith to stay seems to have lessened with the signing of Fereti Tuilagi from Halifax.

The crowd favourite, known as 'Freddie' at the Shay, has played on the wing this season but is expected to switch to centre to fill Smith's berth next year.

Hughes said: "He a strong lad and has tremendous utility ability. He can play wing, centre or fullback which gives us valuable cover in crucial areas."

Saints are expected to make another three major signings, including a half back, before the start of the new season.

Hughes said: "We expect to make two or three more signings before next season and I'm talking with Ellery Hanley about the sort of names we want."

By PHIL HOWARTH

and talks will continue. The team is coming together well at the moment and we're pleased with the progress made."

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