Harlequins RL continued their squad re-building today with the signing of Australian winger Michael Robertson and Hull KR duo Liam Colbon and Matt Cook.

The 28-year-old Robertson, whose hat-trick of tries helped Manly Sea Eagles to victory over Melbourne in the 2008 NRL Grand Final, has been granted an early release from his contract to join the London club on a 12-month deal, with an option for a second year.

Robertson, who played for Scotland at the 2008 World Cup, will bring a rich pedigree to the Engage Super League, having made 147 first-grade appearances for Manly, scoring at a rate of a try every 1.8 games.

“Michael is a proven tryscorer and he is coming whilst in good form and in the prime of his career,” said Harlequins coach Rob Powell.

“He will add leadership in the dressing room and class on the field and we’re looking forward to welcoming him to the club.”

Robertson said: “While leaving Manly is a very tough decision, I’m really excited about the next phase of my career.

“A lot of my mates have done it and loved the experience so when the opportunity to give it a shot came up I grabbed it.

“I want to go over there whilst I’m enjoying my football and hopefully with another premiership under my belt.

“I’ve always wanted to play in England and felt it was important I went over while I was in good form and playing well.

“Harlequins RL is a club on the rise and I’ve have heard nothing but great things about their set-up. I look forward to enjoying plenty of success there.”

Quins have taken their number of recruits for 2012 to nine with the capture of winger Colbon and second rower Cook, both on two-year deals.

Colbon, 26, who began his career with his home-town club Wigan Warriors before moving to Hull KR in 2009, said: “It’s a great opportunity for me to show what I can do.”

For the 24-year-old Cook, the move to London represents a return to his roots. He was a budding player with rugby union club Saracens before signing for Bradford Bulls in 2003.

“I’m really excited to be coming home to Harlequins Rugby League,” he said.

“It’s where I started my career when I was a kid and I was coached by Phil Jones. I’m really looking forward to getting back there and playing in the Super League.”

Powell said: “Liam is exactly the type of winger that we like at this club. He makes a lot of metres in yardage and is a strong ball carrier.

“He’s at a good age and has served a good apprenticeship at Wigan and Hull KR.

“Matt’s a strong ball carrier and runs a decent line on an edge. He’s had limited opportunities due to the strength that Rovers have had in those positions but we feel he is someone who can kick on and play a lot of games. He will definitely add something to our squad.”