Chris Dean commits to Widnes for 2019

Drew Darbyshire

Chris Dean has committed his future to Widnes, signing a one-year deal with the club.

The 30-year-old joined Vikings on a permanent basis from Wakefield Trinity in 2012 and has gone on to make 155 appearances, scoring 34 tries.

Dean struggled with injuries last season, playing just 14 games for Widnes, but still managing to cross for five tries.

On his new deal, Dean said: “I feel really happy to be committing to Widnes for at least one more year and secure my future at the club.

“This will be my eighth season here and it has really helped me to establish myself as a professional player. The club has a big future with all the young lads pushing through at the minute and I wanted to be a part of that.

“The Championship is a very physical league, so a competitive pack is a must. We have the majority of our experience in our pack this year so it is vital that we get the team going forward and lead the way for our youngsters to thrive.

“The club has stood by me after two freak years with injury, so I wanted to stay and repay the faith they have shown.

“Widnes needs to be in Super League and we will be giving everything we’ve got to get back there for ourselves and for our fans.”