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Last Updated: Tuesday, 14 June, 2005, 08:41 GMT 09:41 UK
Long revels in new Saints regime
By Paul Fletcher

Sean Long in action for St Helens
Long was linked with Wigan but has ruled out talk of a switch to the JJB
St Helens scrum-half Sean Long has praised new coach Daniel Anderson for bringing the best out of him.

Saints have beaten Leeds, Bradford and Salford since Anderson took over from Ian Millward, with Long in superb form.

"Daniel has done a lot of work with me over the last couple of weeks," the Great Britain player told BBC Sport.

"Daniel is big on his number seven doing the kicking so I have been doing all different types of kicks and trying to give myself a bit more time."

Long added that since Anderson succeeded Millward he has tried to improve the team defensively.

The defence has improved loads over the last couple of games
Sean Long

"We all know how each other play but he has got good ideas and we are learning all the time and responding to what he has to say," said the 28-year-old Great Britain international.

"Daniel is a sound bloke, very laid back, very clinical and a person who goes deep into his game plan.

"He hasn't changed too much but he has tinkered a few things, in defence mostly. The defence has improved loads over the last couple of games."

Saints form dipped following the controversial departure of Millward, who is now in charge of rivals Wigan.

But Long believes the arrival of Anderson has put a spring in the step at Knowsley Road.

"Obviously we struggled for the couple of weeks when we didn't have a coach," added Long.

We were all disappointed when Ian left but the arrival of a new coach sends a buzz about the camp
Sean Long

"We had heard a few rumours about who it might be and we just wanted it settled and the new man to arrive.

"We were all disappointed when Ian left but the arrival of a new coach sends a buzz about the camp and in training and it is like a breath of fresh air.

"Everyone is up for it and trying to impress."

Long added that the recent good weather has helped Saints to play their expansive brand of rugby.

"The dry weather has come in to play," he said. "We are playing off the cuff and that is what we do best.

"Daniel has given the six (stand-off), seven (scrum-half) and 13 (loose forward) more of a free role and we are all gelling together."




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