England rugby union international Luther Burrell to join Warrington

Warrington have signed former England rugby union international Luther Burrell from Northampton Saints on a two and a half year deal.

Burrell, 31, will join the Wire at the beginning of July, following the end of the union season.

He said: “My background is predominantly in Rugby League as I grew up in the north, in Huddersfield, surrounded by the sport and playing it at school.

“It’s never really left my blood; I guess my aim was to always try my hand at it one day and I’m buzzing to get involved with Rugby League and the Super League.

“I’m excited about the challenge ahead as it’s fresh for me.

“I’ve had some great times in Rugby Union, and I’ve had some adverse times, so for me to have this opportunity to play Rugby League and see how far I can get with a great team is exciting.”

Burrell has also played for Sale Sharks and Leeds Carnegie, making more than 150 clubs appearances in total.

He played for England between 2013 and 2016, featuring in the Six Nations and on tours to Australia, New Zealand and Argentina.

Wolves coach Steve Price said: “He’s a quality signing, being a former England International who has played at the highest level in Rugby Union. It’s exciting for Luther to be able to switch codes and to challenge himself in the Super League.

“He’ll have to get up to speed with new calls, different team mates and a different game, so it will take a bit of time to transition, but he’s tall, athletic and can play in a number of positions which adds  a lot of depth to our playing squad.

“He’s had an interest in the game of Rugby League from a young age, and is a great coup for our club.”