ST KILDA has signed two new Irish rookies as it continues a strategy of building its list with international talent.
 
The Saints have signed hurling star Darragh Joyce and International Rules player Ray Connellan, both on two-year deals.
 
The pair trained with St Kilda for three weeks mid-season and hope to relocate to Melbourne before the end of the season.
 
"Our strategy from mid-2013 has been to increase our talent base through different means," Saints recruiting boss Tony Elshaug told The Age.
 
"We hope these boys could play a significant part in that."
 
Connellan suffered a broken leg several weeks ago and has undergone surgery for two breaks to the fibula above his ankle.
 
The 22-year-old was hoping the injury did not cut into his first pre-season with the Saints.
 
He attended the AFL Academy Camp in Florida at the start of this year and caught the Saints' attention and is likely to be a Category A rookie on the Saints' list.
 
Joyce, who came to the club's attention two years ago when he attended the AFL Irish Combine, is expected to be the club's one allowed Category B Irish rookie.