Last update on.
After Saturday's match, all three of Kevin Naiqama, Lachlan Coote and Theo Fages will be leaving St Helens
Betfred Super League Grand Final Location: Old Trafford. Kick-off is at 18:00 BST. Coverage: Live commentary on BBC Radio 5 Live Sports Extra & BBC Radio Radio Merseyside. Live text commentary on BBC Sport website & App. Highlights on BBC Two at 17:00 BST Sunday, October 10, and on demand via BBC iPlayer
Kevin Naiqama and Lachlan Coote hope Saturday's Super League Grand final ends in a "three-peat," farewell to their spells at St Helens.
31-year-old Coote is heading to Hull KR in 2022. 32-year old Naiqama will be returning to Australia with his family this autumn.
Both had been involved in back to back Grand Final wins in 2019 & 2020. The Saints' victory over Catalans Dragons would complete the triple.
Coote stated, "It would seem unreal to end on a high in Old Trafford."
"Last year was not really a Grand Final, but I'm sure it will be this year.
"Either it will be, it's the end of an age for me so it's really going to be emotional."
Naiqama said, "It's just an extremely special group of players. It's evident in the silverware and games that we have been part of.
"You would think that after winning so many games and being part of the Grand Finals, the Challenge Cup, it would all drop off. But with the group I have here, I couldn't be more proud. It's a great honor to be part of this.
Roby influence: Coote
James Roby (left), has been an inspirational team-mate of Coote
Coote's future was uncertain after his 2018 spell with the North Queensland Cowboys in National Rugby League. However, the Saints move has made a positive impact on his life.
The Scotland international soccer player thanked his coaches Kristian Woolf and Justin Holbrook for saving his career, and he also expressed gratitude to his team-mates.
He will leave St Helens with at least two Grand Final rings, a Challenge Cup winner’s medal and his NRL premiership with the Cowboys in 2015, regardless of what happens.
Coote stated, "I'm going miss the players around my, it's going be difficult to go away." They've brought out the best in me.
"With James Roby leading us out, there's no better person to play for than him and it will be really special not to be on the field with him."
Naiqama is ready to sign off and reunite family
Kevin Naiqama (left), got the opportunity to give Saints a fitting send-off, scoring against Leeds in semi-final
Naiqama was 12,000 miles away from her family in Australia due to the coronavirus pandemic. Travel restrictions made it difficult for her to travel. Her decision to leave this fall was purely personal.
His strong centre play was a key feature of the Saints' success. He won the Challenge Cup at Wembley and two Grand Final rings.
Saturday's final hurdle at 'Theatre of Dreams’ is the last thing that will stand between Fiji's skipper and his closest friends.
He said, "I've decided that my wife and my daughter will be my first priority." "That is the most important thing in my life, it trumps all.
It's the main reason I'm returning. It's been an incredible experience. Had it not been for Covid and not being able see my family, I might have extended.
"I am grateful for my time here, and I look forward to putting on one last big performance."
Saints are a beacon of hope for the future
The squad's young talent will be able to take advantage of the exits of Naiqama, Coote and Naiqama.
Jack Welsby's rise to prominence as an indispensable name on the teamsheet has likely accelerated Saints' decision not to allow Coote go, while Lewis Dodd will be replacing Fages at scrum half when the Frenchman departs.
Woolf's job as head coach is to maintain the success of the team despite changes in personnel. James Bell, Curtis Sironen and Will Hopoate will all be joining the ranks for 2022.
Coote stated that although there are a few players who have moved on, the club was able to maintain its consistency.
"I don’t believe any player can be the reason the club has been successful, but I believe Jonny [Lomax] is resigning and Jack Welsby (and Lewis Dodd) are safe choices. There is a solid foundation to build on.
