Lance Hohaia feels he has “let the team down” with the sudden announcement of his retirement, said St Helens coach Keiron Cunningham yesterday.

The 32-year-old New Zealander broke the news last Wednesday that he hung up his boots because of “recurrent post-match concussion-type symptoms” arising from his concussion while playing for Saints in last October’s Super League Grand Final.

Hohaia, who made eight appearances this season before announcing his decision to quit, has made no comment on his future other than to say he would be seeking medical advice, but Cunningham has kept in touch with the Kiwi international.

“He seems okay,” Cunningham told the club’s weekly press conference. “I spoke to him before he announced he was going to leave. He let me know what was going on.

“He’s a bit disappointed that he’s let the team down but he seems fine. He made his decision a long time ago I think in his head.”