Long quits GB to concentrate on the Saints

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Long, currently in his testimonial season at Knowsley Road, is out of contract at the end of the season and is hoping to sign a new deal.

Simply a Saint: Sean Long has called time on his GB career

"I've made my mind up and just want to do my best for St Helens now," he said.

"If I can have a couple of full pre-seasons from now on, then I might get another season or two our of myself at the end of my career.

"I've got to listen to my body now and there are too many games in a year for someone to keep playing internationals and expect to be right for the following Super League season."

Britain play their first match under new coach Tony Smith against France in June before meeting New Zealand in the autumn.

Meanwhile, New Zealand's veteran scrum-half Stacey Jones has also ruled himself out of the autumn Test series.

The Catalans Dragons captain has twice come out of retirement to help the Kiwis reach the Tri-Nations final over the last two years but insists any call from coach Brian McClennan would fall on deaf ears this time.

"I told Brian that I've retired," he said. "He's twisted my arm a few times in the past but I don't think he'll be successful if he tries again."

Jones, who is out of contract with the Dragons in October, could make a one-off guest appearance for the Kiwis in the centenary international against a Great Britain XIII at Warrington on October 21.