Gaskell happy to be back on Widnes wing

The Irish international has had more than his fair share of injuries in the last couple of years but has come out fighting and started the Championship season well with Widnes, despite not getting on the scoresheet.

“I got injured in pre-season, that was the reason for me not getting much game time.” The former Warrington and Leigh player said.

“Thankfully that’s behind me and I’m raring to give my all.”

The 27-year old made 13 appearances for the Vikings last term and will be hoping to top that amount this time round.

Gaskell was one of a number of impressive performers in the Vikings 44-16 win over Sheffield Eagles and commented in the aftermath of the eight try success, “It’s good to get off to a winning start, although that score doesn’t tell the story of the game. It was a tough game, very physical and you know you are always going to get that from Sheffield.

“We’ve just got to cut out the mistakes and penalties but our second half was definitely better than the first.”

Dean will be hoping that his form and tricky runs from dummy half will keep him firmly in the mind of Denis Betts when it comes to team selection but with Matt Gardner, Paddy Flynn and some of the talented young players making their way at the Stobart Stadium Halton, he faces a fight.

Widnes are at home next Sunday (20th March 3pm) when they entertain Hunslet Hawks.