Sonny Nickle will leave St Helens at the end of the season after the club decided not to offer him a new contract.

The 33-year-old forward, who has made over 220 appearances for Saints during two spells at Knowsley Road, is keen to carry on playing at the top level.

"Naturally I'm disappointed, but the club have to move forward," said Nickle. "I'm still hungry for rugby league and want to find a new challenge."

Despite his decision to offload Nickle, Saints coach Ian Millward, who signed a new five-year deal with the club last week, was full of praise for the veteran forward.

"He's probably in the best form of his career," said the Australian. "Sonny is a great professional with a great attitude."

Nickle has scored 48 tries for Saints and has also played for Hunslet, Sheffield Eagles and Bradford Bulls.

During his time with Saints he has won two Super League Grand Finals, the Challenge Cup and the World Club Challenge.