Mose Masoe: The Smiling Assassin

Mose Masoe cannot wait to get his St Helens career underway, and when he does he will be out to make up for lost time.

Masoe, 24, is currently sidelined due to an injury he suffered on World Cup duty for Samoa, but expects to be available for action by the end of February.

‘Tiny’, as he is known to his friends, promises to make an immediate impact.

“I love the physical side of the game,” said Masoe.

“It’s my style to get the opposition before they get me.”

During the giant prop’s time in the NRL, he picked up a reputation for his no-nonsense style, and was known by some as the ‘Smiling Assassin’.

“I’ve had the Smiling Assassin nickname since the Roosters, we played a game and I made a few big hits that the Footy Show picked up on.

“My little nephew showed me a video of my big hits on YouTube, which was pretty cool, I didn’t even know I was on there.”

After leaving the Tricolours, his first professional club, Masoe spent last season with Penrith – alongside fellow Saints new boy Luke Walsh.

“Walshy is an underrated player, he’s got a good kicking game so it’s going to be good for us when we’re in a bit of an armwrestle and need to get up the pitch.

“He’s a tough half-back and he takes the ball right to the line.”

As a family man, having the likes of Walsh and international teammate Sia Soliola around is helping Masoe settle in.

“I’ve always been family orientated,” he explained.

“I grew up with three sisters, although they bullied me until I was taller than them!

“My good form in the last couple of years is definitely due to spending time with my wife and children.”