St Helens confirm Lachlan Coote signing

St Helens have confirmed the signing of Lachlan Coote on a three-year deal.

Coote, 28, joins from the North Queensland Cowboys in what is effectively a move swap with Man of Steel nominee Ben Barba, who goes the other way at the end of the season.

The former Scotland international has made more than 160 appearances in the NRL for Penrith and the Cowboys.

He said: “My family and I are really excited to be moving to England.

“It is a great opportunity to play for such a proud and successful club and I’m really looking forward to settling in and kicking off the 2019 season.”

Coote is the latest of three impressive signings from Down Under made by Saints for 2019, following on from Wests’ Kevin Naiqama and Cronulla back-rower Joseph Paulo.

They have also signed back-rower Joe Batchelor from League One winners York.

Coach Justin Holbrook added: “I’m really excited to have such a quality player coming to our club.

“He is an exciting player with a good kicking game and vision. He will suit our club perfectly.”