Cullen to welcome back injured Vikings

Widnes coach Paul Cullen is nearing a fully fit squad for the first time since taking charge at the Stobart Stadium.

The Vikings travel to Sheffield on Sunday and hope to welcome back John Duffy (shoulder), Toa Kohe-Love and Richard Fletcher (both hamstring) after all three trained well this week.

Long term casualties Lee Paterson and Steve Bannister could also be in contention after making their return in a reserves game last weekend.

Cullen said: “Lee has only had two 20 minute spells in the reserves – and did very well and is now back in the frame. He is not a million miles off but might just need a bit more work yet to get him up to match speed.

“Steve Bannister went well and had a full 80 minutes and is injury free so there are good signs.

“It gives me great hope that all the pieces that have been assembled for me will fit into place. The jigsaw is not there yet because we have not got those senior players – but what has pleased me in this period is that a lot of those younger players have aimed up when they have played out of position through necessity.”

The Vikings have been forced in to playing a number of young players this season due to injuries, and will still be without forward Iain Morrison, who was injured in the opening game of the season.