FIJI World Cup skipper Kevin Naiqama expects his style of play to fit the Saints brand like a glove - and is relishing the season start in the red vee.

The 29-year-old centre, who turned down other offers to join Saints, is excited for the year ahead after slowly but surely settling into his new surroundings.

The experienced NRL outside back, who can also play full back and wing, has had a whirlwind of a time since departing Wests Tigers.

Naiqama said: “It’s been a busy few months; I got married, had the honeymoon and then moved over here."

As one of three new men from Down Under, he spoke of the welcome the trio have had - not just for them as players.

“Our partners have made the biggest sacrifice and making sure they settle in is important.

"I guess for us as new players it is easy as we have moved into our environment and made friends with 30 players straight away.

“It is an awesome playing squad and they make it very enjoyable and exciting to turn up every day at training.

"There are a lot of characters in the team too but everyone has been definitely welcoming and it has been very peaceful for myself to get to know the lads.”

Naiqama replaces Ryan Morgan in the sqaud and adds some real dynamism to the right edge, where he will work in tandem with Golden Boot winner Tommy Makinson.

“Over the last few seasons I have played at centre and haven’t looked back.

"The style of footy here does suit me and I’m sure Lachlan (Coote) and Joseph Paulo think the same too.

“It is entertaining for the fans so hopefully we can continue to build on that and give the fans something to cheer about.

“I’m hoping the football I play is what Justin brought me here for; that’s being fast, explosive and creating opportunities on the edge.

“That’s hopefully what I will continue to do and help put some points on the board.”

Naiqama was not short of offers, but explained why he chose Saints 12,000 miles away.

“It was a deep desire in me to come over here and compete in Super League.

“I’d had a few offers but St Helens was the best fit for me. It is a proud and historic club that has been very successful and I wanted to be part of it.

“With the coaching staff and playing group we have here there is definitely a great opportunity looming. We were unlucky this year and I’m sure with the new additions we can better our chances next year," he said.