SAINTS have signed a natural footballer with a little bit of niggle to his game in Travis Burns.

That is the view of scrum half Luke Walsh, who partnered the former Hull KR stand off at Penrith, and he is looking forward to linking up with his pal and compatriot over the course of next season.

Burns has signed a three year deal at Langtree Park, meaning Saints had to pay what is understood to have been a £60,000 transfer fee to release the pugnacious number six from his contract on east Hull.

“He will annoy me that’s for sure!” quipped Walsh when asked what Burns will bring to the club.

“We are close mates and played a lot of footy together at Penrith.

“But he will bring a lot to the team. He is an extra ball player who organises well and is a competitor — one of the most competitive blokes I have met.

“He has that niggle in his game and that is good for the team as it will put some fear into the opposition.

“He talks well and is a natural footballer — I’m looking forward to being on the field with him next year.”

The Australian, who has already moved over to St Helens, will link up with his teammates in the off-season.

“Whilst I’m sad to leave Hull KR — they have been great to me and my family — I am really excited to be joining Saints,” Burns said.

“It will be great linking with my friend and former teammate Luke Walsh and what is an exciting and strong squad.

“Saints have a strong team that is looking to win silverware over the next few years and I am excited and looking forward to being part of that.”

Chairman Eamonn McManus hailed the signing of the streetwise 30-year-old, who has caused Saints plenty of problems in clashes between the sides these past two years.

“Travis is a key signing for us and will bring both quality and depth to our half back options and combinations.

“He is a proven and experienced stand off and will also bring directness and toughness as well as a strong kicking game,” McManus said.

Burns began his career at Manly where he was rookie of the year in 2006 before joining North Queensland in 2008 for a two year stint.

He joined Penrith Panthers prior to the 2010 season where he linked up with Walsh, scoring more than 100 points in 55 appearances He has spent the past two seasons in Super League, where he has been the linchpin of the team since the departures of Blake Green and Michael Dobson.

Saints will retain the services of current number six Lance Hohaia, who will enter the final year of his four year contract.