By Phil Gordos

Roby has been tipped as a future star for Britain by Cunningham

Keiron Cunningham is tipping St Helens team-mate James Roby to shine in his place when Great Britain kick off their Tri-Nations campaign later this month.

Cunningham turned down the chance to tour with the Lions because he wanted to spend more time with his family.

But the hooker believes Roby can step into the breach, saying: "I believe James will definitely hold his own in Australia and New Zealand.

"He has got some experience under his belt this year and can do a great job."

Roby made his first-team debut for Saints as a 19-year-old in March 2004, but he has shot to prominence this season in helping his club win every domestic honour on offer, culminating in Saturday's Super League Grand Final win over Hull FC.

He is still only 20 - he turns 21 at the end of November - but Cunningham says age is no barrier to success on the international stage.

Terry Newton will probably start (for Britain) but James is a future star. He is awesome Kieron Cunningham

"If you're good enough, you are old enough in my book," he said. "Terry Newton will probably start but James is a future star. He is awesome."

While Britain prepare to face the Kangaroos and Kiwis, Cunningham, 29, will be holidaying in Florida.

His decision to make himself unavailable for the Lions is a big blow, but he insisted: "I've no regrets, none at all."

And the Welshman is already looking ahead to 2007, when Saints will be defending all three major domestic titles.

"Hopefully next year will be just as fruitful as this one," he said. "We don't want to take a backward step."

Cunningham is also keen to add some individual honours to his impressive list of team accolades.

Cunningham, right, hopes to emulate Wellens, left, and win the Man of Steel award

He has won four Grand Final rings and five Challenge Cups with St Helens, but he is still chasing the one major title that has so far eluded him: Man of Steel.

"I keep jinxing myself," said Cunningham. "Every year I keep saying that this will be my time to win it, but so far it hasn't happened."

St Helens have an envious record when it comes to the coveted Man of Steel award.

Sean Long (2000), Paul Sculthorpe (2001 and 2002), Jamie Lyon (2005) and Paul Wellens (2006) have all been named Super League's best player in the last seven years.

Somehow, Cunningham has missed out despite being one of the world's best hookers and one of the few British players Australia would love to have in their side.