James Graham and James Roby, alongside Kyle Eastmond and Scott Moore have all progressed through its academy and scholarship programme, while Jon Wilkin came to St Helens at a young age from Hull KR to continue his rugby development.

Mike Rush, head of high performance at the GPW Recruitment Stadium, said that the players' selection was down to their own dedication and the work of the club's coaching staff and volunteers in their formative years.

He said: "We are delighted to have had five representatives in the England squad and the fact that four have come through our scholarship scheme shows it is continuing to develop the stars of the future."

Saints' scholarship scheme allows players to continue their RL education under the watchful eye and guidance of one of the leading Super League clubs.

As well as RL training, scholars receive educational lectures, strength and conditioning, nutritional advice and expert physiotherapy support.

Player performance manager Neil Kilshaw said: "Being chosen to join St Helens RLFC scholarship is a prestigious honour.

"It should be seen as a reflection on a player's effort, commitment, development and most importantly future potential.

"Becoming a scholar should make the player feel proud, as these places are so few.

Club chairman Eamonn McManus said: "Even though we lost in the final against Australia, we, as a club are particularly proud that so many of our former academy products faced some off the best players in the world and gave a good account.

"I'm also glad that the national side has shown the same confidence and commitment in young talent which we have done in recent years at St Helens.

"It paid dividends against New Zealand and can only breed confidence for the future."