Saints appoint Anderson as coach Dave Woods' verdict: Pressure will be on Anderson

He will succeed sacked Ian Millward next week and is "buzzing" at the thought of the squad available to him.

"I'm a great believer that you never bring anyone in unless they give you something that's not at the club," the Australian told BBC Radio Five Live.

"So I really want to look at the roster - I'm looking forward to working with the players there first and foremost."

Anderson picked out Paul Sculthorpe, Sean Long, Paul Wellens and Keiron Cunningham as stars.

The only way the great teams test themselves is against the best and Leeds are the benchmark Daniel Anderson St Helens coach

"I'm really buzzing and looking forward to being involved with a very traditional, powerful rugby league club and some of the best players in the world," he said.

"It is an opportunity that isn't afforded every day and a carrot that was just too good to pass up."

St Helens players have wasted no time welcoming Anderson's appointment.

Winger Ade Gardner admitted the sacking of Millward had shaken the players but described Anderson's appointment as "very positive".

"It's been a little bit numbing over the past couple of weeks and a few people are still in shock," he said.

Have Your Say Is Anderson right for Saints?

"I think everybody will take the news very well."

Saints' New Zealand international Vinnie Anderson, who made his Test debut under his namesake, said: "It's great news for the squad and the St Helens public.

"He's a fantastic coach, a strong leader and a person of principle.

"He contributed a great deal to making me the player that I am today and I look forward to renewing the acquaintance."