Super League club St Helens have appointed Wests Tigers assistant Royce Simmons as head coach from 2011.

Simmons has agreed a two-year contract to replace departing boss Mick Potter and will leave his role as assistant to the Australia national team to take charge of Saints next season.

The 50-year-old former Australia hooker began his coaching career in England at Hull in 1992 before returning to Sydney to take charge of the Penrith Panthers for seven years.

Simmons has been assistant to Tim Sheens at the Tigers since 2003 and has also been Sheens' right-hand man with the Kangaroos for the last 18 months.

He said: "This is a huge honour for me and a challenge that I am ready for.

"St Helens are one of the great historic names in world rugby league and are at the crossroads for a great future as they move to a new stadium with a squad that has a great balance and blend of proven internationals and some of the brightest young prospects in the game.

"I'm fully aware of their record of achievement and the style of rugby which has so distinguished them over the years. I'm really looking forward to taking up the role and moving to England."

St Helens chairman Eamonn McManus believes Simmons will make a big impact in Super League.

"Royce will bring vast experience to the Saints. He is used to successfully coaching elite players and developing young talent alike," McManus said.

"Having worked directly with Australian national coach Tim Sheens for the last seven years, he is more than well equipped to ensure that Saints compete and succeed at the highest level."

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