Matty Fozard heads to hometown club

Widnes have made their third new signing for 2022 with the capture of London hooker Matty Fozard.

Fozard, 26, joins his hometown club after three years in the capital.

He said: “It’s pretty special. I grew up around Widnes, went to school, played for them as a kid. I think it was just the right time to come home and play for my home town club.

“It’s a very passionate place, Widnes. It’s very rugby orientated. I’ve been to plenty of games, I used to be a season ticket holder. You come to the games and they’re already chanting, they want the best out of the club.

“It’s great to see how Widnes is back on the rise now, they seem to be in a really good position as a club. To see the fans, how passionate they are, home and away, that’s what I’m looking forward to doing – walking out, hearing the fans, and playing here.”

Fozard played for Wales at the 2017 World Cup and has also featured for Batley, Rochdale and Sheffield, having come through the ranks at St Helens, where he made a solitary Super League appearance, ironically against the Vikings.

He returned to action for London against Sheffield recently, and the Broncos face Featherstone and York in their final two games as they bid to secure a play-off spot for a shot at promotion.

Fozard added: “I can’t thank London Broncos enough for the opportunity they have provided me in the last few years.

“My teammates, coaches and the backroom staff have all played a huge part in my career and I’d also like to thank the fans for their support. My job at the club isn’t over. I will continue to work hard and ensure we can reach the play-offs and go for promotion.”

The Vikings have already signed back-rower Sam Wilde from Newcastle and Dewsbury utility back Matty Fleming.

Captain Jack Owens, Steve Tyrer, Danny Craven, Kenny Baker, Owen Farnworth and Adam Lawton have all agreed contract extensions.