NEW coach Justin Holbrook cannot wait to get started in his post at Saints - and has been appointed with a focus on the team's attack.

The 41-year-old Junior Kangaroos coach has signed a two-and-a-half year contract with the Saints and will commence his new role as soon as his visa allows.

The Sydney Roosters assistant will retain Jamahl Lolesi and Sean Long as part of his coaching team.

Holbrook said: “I’m excited about the opportunity to be the head coach of St Helens.

"The club has a rich and proud history and I am very grateful to have been given the opportunity.

“St Helens are one of the top teams in the Super League competition with a history of success. I will be working hard to continue that tradition and I cannot wait to get started.”

Holbrook is the current assistant coach at the Sydney Roosters with specific focus on attack.

Saints Chief Executive Mike Rush said: “We are delighted to secure Justin; he is widely experienced and has a track record of coaching at the highest level.

“He impressed us with his knowledge of the British game and his work with younger players.

“In his role as head of the Junior Kangaroos, a position he has held for three seasons, he has done a superb job in nurturing young talent and developing the next wave of Australian Internationals.

“During the process Justin clearly identified himself as an attack minded coach and the importance of the transition between defence and attack.

“He also understands the club and our philosophy which is important moving forward.”

Holbrook was part of the Roosters coaching team that guided the club to the Minor Premiership in 2015.

He also coached Sydney when they faced Saints in the 2016 World Club Series.

Holbrook's previous coaching experience includes working with the Canterbury Bulldogs, St George-Illawarra and the Parramatta Eels.

He also played as a half for Newcastle Knights, Penrith Panthers and Sydney Roosters during his own playing career.

Saints expect Holbrook to arrive in this country as soon as his visa is sorted.

He comes with the good wishes of his Roosters boss.

"Justin has made a significant contribution to the Roosters since he joined us as an Assistant Coach in 2014," said Roosters Head Coach, Trent Robinson.

"Not only is Justin a great coach, he's also a terrific person, and I'd personally like to thank him for his efforts, commitment and friendship.

"This is an exciting opportunity for Justin, and on behalf of everyone involved with the Roosters, we wish Justin, his wife Nat and their young family all the very best.”

Once Holbrook arrives Derek Traynor, who has been part of the interim trio, will return to the Academy set-up.

Justin Holbrook Biography.

2015 to present. NRL Assistant Attack Coach Sydney Roosters

2015 to present. Junior Kangaroos Head Coach

2014. Parramatta NYC Head Coach

2012 & 13. St George Illawarra NYC Head Coach

2010 and 2011. Head Coach Canterbury Bulldogs NSW Cup

2009. NSW Cup Assistant Coach at Cronulla Sharks

2008. Head Coach Gungahlin Bulls - Grand Finalists

2005 – 2007. Captain Coach Dapto Canaries.