SAINTS this week moved to plug their front row weakness by signing up former Wakefield and Melbourne Storm prop Keith Mason on a three-and-a-half year contract.

And Mason will have a real baptism of fire when he makes his debut in Friday night's derby match at home to Wigan.

The Dewsbury-born packman won't be blasting on a bugle - but it is very much like the cavalry arriving as Darren Britt has been having to shoulder a massive burden this season in the front row as Saints have desperately tried to convert back rowers into props overnight.

The 21-year-old Welsh international joined NRL club Melbourne at the start of last season - but spent a large part of the season playing for their second team Brisbane Norths.

But Mason, who last played in the NRL three weeks ago against Canberra, reckons his game has improved dramatically and was looking forward to showing that when he returns to Super League action this weekend.

He said: "I learned a lot in Melbourne from working alongside the likes of Robbie Kearns. If I had stayed in Britain I don't think I would have learned as much as I did last year. They drill so much into you on diet and fitness - it has been really good for me. Coach Craig Bellamy taught me a lot.

"I would recommend any young player should go to Australia if they get the chance - and would love to return to the NRL at the end of my contract, once I am a little bit more established.

"But at the moment I am excited at the opportunities here and a little bit nervous too. But I think it is a good move for me."

He revealed that both Hull and Wigan were among the clubs chasing his signature - but he opted for the Saints.

"I thought they were the best option for me as they are lacking front rowers. I am only young so I have a good future at the club," he said.

Saints' coach Ian Millward was pleased with his new capture.

"Prop forward is one of the specialist positions in the game and it is good to have Keith on board. I think he is the type of player who can take the ball up for us consistently."

Although Saints lost two props, Sonny Nickle and Peter Shiels, in the close-season neither were replaced which has left them struggling so far this year.

Although coach Millward called on his young guns Mark Edmondson, Tim Jonkers and John Stankevitch to step up a gear, it has been a big demand - and increasingly appeared to be affecting the youngsters' confidence.