Wakefield Trinity sign Newcastle Knights playmaker Mason Lino

The Samoa international, 26, has joined the Super League club on a three-year deal and it is hoped he will dovetail nicely with captain Jacob Miller.

With veteran Danny Brough misisng for most of this season and now having moved to Bradford Bulls, Wakefield have urgently needed to find themselves a quality No7.

Lino, who has also played with New Zealand Warriors in the NRL, believes he fits the bill.

“I hope I can provide some consistent and good performances in 2021 and beyond,” he said.

“I’ve learnt plenty in the NRL, from players I’ve played with and people I’ve worked with, so hopefully I can use that to my advantage and help the team.

“Super League was always something I wanted to have a crack at and it was a goal to come over.

“I’m very excited. I’ve been following the team and I can’t wait to get over and get to work.

“It felt like it was a really good move for me to come over and hopefully I can make a big contribution to the team.

“Hopefully it will be a good experience for me and I’m most excited about playing some consistent football for Wakefield.”

Trinity had initially hoped to re-sign Australian half-back Sam Williams from Canberra Raiders but that never materialised.

Lino is keen to make his mark, though, having managed just five NRL games for Newcastle this term.

He did make a dozen appearances for them last year and has built up his first-grade experience.

Chester said: “Mason will be a real key signing for us as we approach 2021.

“He is a real tough competitor and will guide us around the park, whilst also possessing an impressive kicking game and some quick feet.

“I know from speaking to Mason that he’s super keen to come over and start work.

“I’ve also spoken to Justin Morgan and Blake Green in Australia about Mason and they couldn’t speak highly enough of him.

“At 26-year-old, Mason has his prime years ahead of him and the Trinity fans will certainly enjoy watching him in the Red, White and Blue over the next three years.”