By Dave Woods

St Helens hooker Mick Higham returns from a three-month lay-off against Leigh on Sunday with his future at Knowsley Road hanging in the balance.

Higham's contract runs out at the end of next season and the Great Britain international has already been linked with a move to fierce rivals Wigan.

"I've been here for five years and I'm still behind Keiron Cunningham, so it could be time to move on," he said.

Higham, 24, has been sidelined since injuring a foot against Widnes in May.

Despite playing second fiddle to Cunningham for long periods, Higham earned a call-up to the Lions squad for last year's Tri-Nations Series, making his debut against New Zealand.

Now he is keen to convince Saints coach Daniel Anderson just what a big impact he can make at the club.

"I've had a chat with Daniel and told him he's got two of the best hookers in Super League at the club and it's going to be hard to keep them both happy," said Higham.

"But I'm playing this weekend and if play well I could give Daniel a real selection headache."

Meanwhile, Higham has played down talk of a move to Wigan despite his strong links with former St Helens coach Ian Millward, who is now in charge at the JJB Stadium.

"I've not really spoken to him for a long time but there comes a time in your career when you have to look after yourself," said Higham, one of Millward's first signings as Saints boss.