Puletua is expected to make his debut for Rovers on Saturday

Hull KR have signed experienced prop Tony Puletua on loan until the end of the season to further strengthen the club’s squad for the 2015 campaign.

The former New Zealand and Samoan international has joined the Robins from Super League rivals Salford Red Devils and is expected to make his debut in Saturday’s derby against Hull FC at Magic Weekend in Newcastle.

Coming hot on the heels of a loan deal for Wigan front-rower James Greenwood last week, Puletua is set to bring more size and experience to the Rovers pack and the 35-year-old said he was excited to be coming to the KC Lightstream Stadium.

“It came about through a few phone calls from Chris Chester. The club has a few injuries at the moment and he wanted me to come in and help out,” he said.

“I’ve not been playing for Salford and I’ve always seen this year as my last season before I retire and I want to go out with a bang. I really want to do well for the club before I finish up.

“It’s been 19 long years my career and it’s a good feeling to finish at a strong club with so much history. I really want to go out on a high and it’s straight in at the deep end for me this week against Hull FC.

“Hopefully my experience will help me and I’m looking forward to it. It’s a big game on a big stage and I’m sure it will live up to all expectations. It will be great to be part of a great club.”

Rovers head coach Chris Chester said Puletua was a timely addition to his squad which missing a number of first team players through injury, including props Dane Tilse, Adam Walker and Mitch Allgood,.

Chester said: “Tony is a quality player who has played at the highest level for a number of years. He won the NRL with Penrith and he has plenty of big game experience, which will be a real asset for our younger blokes.

“We are down to a couple of fit front-rowers at the moment so to bring in a prop of Tony’s calibre is a fantastic addition to our squad and our thanks go out to the Salford club for their cooperation.”