St Helens sign Luke Walsh from Penrith Panthers

St Helens have confirmed the signing of scrum-half Luke Walsh from Penrith Panthers for the start of next season.

The 26-year-old has penned a two-year contract with the option to stay for a further year.

Saints, currently eighth in Super League, have had problems at half-back throughout a tough 2013 season.

Coach Nathan Brown said: "Luke is an exciting addition to the squad.

"He is a good organiser and possesses a great kicking game too.

"We are always looking to improve the team and I'm sure Luke will contribute to that. We are looking forward to having him on board.

"We would also like to thank Penrith Panthers for allowing Luke to be released from his contract to join us next season."

Walsh, Penrith's player of the season in 2011, has made 107 appearances in Australia's elite NRL competition for both the Panthers and former club Newcastle, scoring 274 points.

He first broke into the Newcastle side in 2007 before moving to the Panthers two years later.

He is a useful goalkicker having landed 34 attempts and a drop goal this season.

PA