Wakefield ace Liam Finn joins Widnes on loan
Widnes have signed Wakefield half-back Liam Finn on loan for the remainder of the season, but he will become a coach at Trinity in 2019.
The Ireland captain has made almost 400 senior career appearances for Halifax, Featherstone Rovers, Dewsbury Rams, Castleford Tigers and Wakefield.
Finn, who has earned 24 caps for Ireland, wants to help the Vikings remain in Super League.
He said: “I’m excited by the challenge presented by this loan move. Widnes Vikings have had a tough year, so I am looking to help them through this period and maintain their place in the Super League.
“I’ll be coming here with a fresh outlook and real motivation to perform at my best. I think this side has real potential, so I’m aiming to bring a positive influence to the team and help them fulfil what they are capable of.
“I’ve played against Widnes on a number of occasions throughout my career and know they can be a tough side to face, with supporters who really get behind their team. These are going to be a massively important games and I’m looking to make a difference.”
Widnes coach Francis Cummins is delighted to have signed the experienced 34-year-old.
He said: “Everybody is looking for good halves, and there aren’t many available, so we’re very pleased to have secured Liam’s services for the remainder of this season.
“Liam adds tremendous experience to the side and has shown an ability to control the game throughout his career.
“He is someone who always wants the ball in his hands, has real game sense, and knows how to handle different situations on the pitch. Importantly, Liam has had a massive influence on every team that he has been part of and made those places better. Hopefully he can have the same effect with us.”
Wakefield chairman Michael Carter is glad that Finn will finish his career playing regular rugby and looks forward to welcoming him back at Trinity next year.
He said: “Liam has been a fantastic part of this club’s journey over the last three years.
“I am delighted that Liam has agreed to become a part of our first team coaching set up from October for the next two years. This loan move to Widnes allows Liam to play out his final season of Super League rugby.
“Every Wakefield fan should be grateful to Liam for the part he has played in our club’s recent history and I am sure he will be a success at Widnes over the coming few weeks.”