Jimmy Keinhorst excited to make Widnes debut this weekend

Widnes’ loanee Jimmy Keinhorst is eager to make his Vikings debut on Friday when they take on Wigan.

The 27-year-old linked up with his Widnes team-mates last week after joining the club on a four-week loan deal from parent club Leeds Rhinos.

And Keinhorst says he is looking forward to getting some regular game time while at the Vikings, starting with his debut against high flyers Wigan Warriors on Friday night.

He said: “I’ve been here for over a week now and I’ve fitted in nicely.

“The lads and the coaching staff have been really welcoming towards me. I’ve got a few sessions under my belt now and I’m ready to crack into this week.

“I’m really excited to make my debut. I’ve played here a few times and I know the fans get behind the team, so I’m looking forward to that and hopefully we can have a big crowd on Friday night.

“We have to be on the top of our game (against Wigan). Wigan are a class team so they will be coming here looking for the win, so we have to be at our best to combat that and hopefully turn that around by putting it on them.”

The Germany international, who can play at centre or in the back-row, has revealed that he is looking to help tighten up the Widnes defence during his time at the club.

He added: “I’ll probably be playing at right centre here and I want to work hard for the lads and do the little things well.

“I pride myself on doing the basics right and having a solid defensive game, and then build my attack on the back of that.

“I want to come and earn the respect of the boys and help them towards some points.”

The Vikings face the Warriors at the Select Security Stadium on Friday night, 8pm kick-off.