AFTER months of unconfirmed speculation Saints have now confirmed the signing of back-up hooker Tommy Lee on a two-year contract.

He has been recruited to give James Roby, who has effectively operated as an 80-minute hooker since 2012, a break during games to prolong his career at the top and maximise his strengths during the game.

An experienced number nine, Lee has been around the block in Super League having coming through the ranks at Hull FC.

The 28-year-old has also played for Wakefield, Huddersfield, Crusaders and London.

And last year he skippered Salford Red Devils.

Coach Keiron Cunningham said: “Tommy is a versatile player who can play at 9, in the halves and at loose forward, taking pressure off James Roby.

“He is experienced too and his leadership and composure will be vital in our young squad as we look to challenge for honours this season.”

Lee has made 210 appearances for his clubs, scoring 22 tries, and is equally adept in the halves and at nine.

He progressed from his amateur club West Hull to make his debut for Hull FC in 2005.

He is Saints' fifth signing, following Luke Douglas, Ryan Morgan, Matty Smith and Adam Walker into the red vee ranks.