Crocker has played in five Tests for Australia

Hull FC have signed versatile Australia forward Michael Crocker on a three-year contract from next season.

The 27-year-old was released from the final year of his contract with Melbourne Storm.

His signing comes a day after the club appointed Richard Agar as head coach following the departure of Peter Sharp.

Agar said: "He's a winner who goes through the front door and takes people with him. He will add steel, aggression and leadership to our pack."

The second-row Australia international joined the Storm from the Sydney Roosters in 2006 and has not been on the losing side in 29 appearances for the club.

But his two-year spell in Melbourne has been hampered by injury and suspension, with Crocker undergoing operations on both shoulders prior to the 2008 season.

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"The club have tasted success in recent years and they are obviously hungry for more. Hopefully, I can help them towards those goals."

Chief executive James Rule said the signing was one of the best the club had made during its 143-year history.

"To have signed a current State of Origin and Australian Test player is a hugely significant signing for us," said Rule.

"Michael is renowned as a fierce competitor and leader both on and off the field. We believe those qualities will be essential in assisting driving the current squad forward both in terms of training and on-field performances.

"His statistics for wins with his current club Melbourne are inspiring and are testament to his burning desire to be a winner."