Former Leeds forward Gareth Ellis will make as big an impact on Australia's National Rugby League as his England team-mate Adrian Morley - and he will not take as long to do it.

That is the prediction of Wests Tigers and Australia coach Tim Sheens as Ellis prepares to make his Tigers debut against Canberra at Campbelltown Sports Stadium on Monday.

Already there have been comparisons with Morley, another ex-Leeds second rower who established himself as one of the world's best forwards during a six-year stint with the Sydney Roosters before returning to Super League with Warrington, and Sheens believes the comparisons are justified.

"I believe so, for sure," Sheens told the Sydney Morning Herald.

"You've got to remember that Adrian played a bit of lower grade when he got to the Roosters.

"It took him a while to adjust, whereas I don't think Gareth is going to have that problem.

"I would say Gareth is going to be a better player in year two than he is in year one.

"Defensively and offensively he's got a very well-balanced game. He can tackle, he can run and he can offload the ball. He has got all the skill ranges and he's a tough kid to go with that as well."

Ellis made 111 Super League appearances for Wakefield and Leeds, won 17 caps for Great Britain and played five times for England. However, his biggest challenge is in front of him after signing a three-year deal with the joint-venture club.

"He'll be nervous, for sure," added Sheens.

"He won't say he is, but I can sense he is.

"I don't mind my players being nervous, though, that brings the best out of them."