Super League new-boys Hull Kingston Rovers have made former Australia international Michael Vella their third prop forward recruit for 2007.

The 28-year-old Vella, a one-time target of Wigan Warriors, has signed a three-year deal with the Robins after securing a release from the last 12 months of his contract with Parramatta.

"I am really excited about coming over to England and playing for a club like Hull KR," he said.

"They have so much history and tradition and as a club they are renowned through Australia.

"They went really well in their competition last year, ending up with a place in Super League.

"I am looking forward to working with Morgs (head coach Justin Morgan) again, who I know very well, and I am also looking forward to helping Rovers cement their position in Super League this coming season."

Vella won five caps for Australia and was a member of the 2000 World Cup squad, and also made 10 State of Origin appearances for New South Wales.

He will join former Leeds prop Mark O'Neill and another Australian-born forward Jim Gannon (Huddersfield) among the host of new faces at Craven Park.

"We are absolutely delighted to sign a player of the calibre of Mick's undoubted quality," said Rovers chief executive Paul Lakin.

"Mick had a year of his contract to run at Parramatta and it is a sign of the ambition of Hull KR that we have brought him over here."