St Helens have re-signed scrum-half Matty Smith from fierce rivals Wigan Warriors on a three-year contract.

The playmaker made his Super League debut for Saints in 2006 after coming through the youth system at the club, but joined Salford Red Devils four years later.

A switch to Wigan followed in 2012 and the 29-year-old has now opted to return to his hometown club after scoring four points with the boot in the Warriors' Grand Final victory over Warrington Wolves last weekend.

Smith, capped four times by England, said: "I am thrilled and honoured to be back at my hometown team.

"It should be a seamless transition as I have come through the system at Saints and know the key staff and players as well as the club's culture.

"I am committed to bringing silverware back to the club and look forward to helping the younger players develop."

Saints head coach Keiron Cunningham said: "I'm delighted to have secured the services of Matty. He a class scrum-half who possesses a fantastic kicking and passing game as well as being an accomplished goal-kicker.

"He has excellent leadership qualities and composure in big games after having experienced several over the course of his career.

"Having come through the system here he understands the club's ethos and culture and has had a lot of success at the Warriors.

"This is a perfect opportunity for us to bring his experience and professionalism to the Saints to not only guide the side around the park but help nurture the youngsters we have here.

"His partnership with Theo Fages will be an exciting one to watch."