Potter this week signed a two-year contract, which will run from 2009, and replaces fellow Australian Daniel Anderson who during his spell at the club so far has steered Saints to glory in the World Club Challenge (2007), the Super League (2006), The League Leaders' Shield (2005, 2006 and 2007) and the Challenge Cup (2006 and 2007).

Chairman Eamonn McManus said: " We are extremely pleased that Mick has accepted the role of head coach.

"He is a coach with a continuously improving track record and whose career is in the ascendancy.

"We are confident that he can continue the brilliant work which Daniel has done during the last three years.

Mr McManus added: "Mick will remain totally committed to the Dragons for the rest of this season and, likewise, St Helens are only interested in further success under Daniel's leadership."

Potter, who steered the French club to last year's Challenge Cup Final at Wembley and a date against Saints, said: "It is a privilege and honour to be considered for the position of head coach at St Helens.

"I am delight at my appointment and looking forward to being associated with such a world famous club.

"However, my immediate commitment is to the Dragons, its players, and fans and I am looking to continue the great work and progress we have achieved at the club so far."

During his playing career, 44-year-old Potter played for Canterbury Bulldogs, St George Dragons, Western Reds, and also represented New South Wales in the highly-charged State of Origin games against Queensland.

He coached New South Wales U17s, had a spell as assistant coach to Matthew Elliot at Bradford Bulls in 1996 and then was persuaded to join the Dragons by former Great Britain coach David Waite.