Luke Burgess joins Manly

Luke Burgess has left South Sydney and signed for Manly Sea Eagles on a two-year deal.

The Rabbitohs have released the England forward from the final year of his contract at the club.

The 27-year-old has racked up 51 NRL appearances since joining the Rabbitohs from Leeds in 2011.

“I’ve had a wonderful time at the South Sydney Rabbitohs and I’d like to thank them for the wonderful memories over the years,” Burgess said.

“I really appreciate them granting me this release. I’m really looking forward to the next few seasons at the Sea Eagles and can’t wait to get stuck in with the boys tomorrow.”

Manly coach Geoff Toovey is delighted to have added the powerful front-rower to his ranks for the 2015 and 2016 seasons.

“Luke is really coming into his prime as a front-rower and we’re pleased to have added more experience, power and depth to our forward pack with his late addition to the squad,” said the coach.

“He’s an experienced footballer and comes with a winning mentality, so I’m sure he’ll fit right in to what we have got going here at the club already.”

Following brother Sam’s departure from Souths to play the other code of rugby in England, only twins Tom and George Burgess now remain with the Rabbitohs.