Frustrated Dean hoping for Widnes return

Widnes forward Chris Dean is hoping to return to the side before the end of The Qualifiers.

Dean, 29, has been limited to just five appearances in 2017 due to injury, having been a virtual ever present last season.

An unusual upper body injury has kept him sidelined since the Vikings home game against Hull in May.

He told the club’s official website: “I am about 3 or 4 weeks away now, and the recovery is coming on really well at the minute.

“I’m just getting my strength back up to where it should be and then hopefully I’ll be back in contention to play again.

“It has been a frustrating year for me as I’ve had two big injuries. I’ve only played five games this year, so I’m absolutely itching to get back out on the field and help the lads.

“I’ve just got to keep doing what I’m doing, be professional about it and hopefully I’ll be back as soon as possible.

“There’s nothing more frustrating for a rugby league player than to be sitting in the stands and watching the games week in, week out. Hopefully, I’ll be back very soon and can help make a difference.”

Without Dean, Widnes lost their opening game of The Qualifiers, 28-14 at home to Warrington.

They travel to face Championship side Halifax this Sunday.