Kenny Baker extends Widnes stay

Widnes forward Kenny Baker has signed a new deal with the club for the 2022 season.

The 29-year-old arrived at Widnes ahead of last season from North Wales Crusaders, and has become a fan favourite at the DCBL Stadium.

Baker has scored four tries in 15 games for the Vikings this season and recently made his 100th career appearance.

He said: “It’s an honour to play for this club so the decision was a no-brainer for me. I have enjoyed it from day one.

“I hope we can string a good run of results together these last couple of games to go into next year with some form and confidence. Take each game as it comes and see what happens.

“Next year is a new year, we start again. I’m hoping to be fighting for a play-off spot. We have the squad for it so it’s just about gelling more as a team and winning those tight games we’ve been in recently.”

Elsewhere in the Championship, York have signed young forward Jacob Gannon from Warrington on a week-to-week loan.

The back-rower, who is the son of ex-Halifax forward Jim and the brother of Leeds youngster Morgan, has come through the system at Warrington but has yet to make his first team debut.

Last summer he was included in the England Academy performance squad which was due to tour Australia and New Zealand before it was cancelled because of the coronavirus pandemic.

Gannon is in line to make his York debut in this weekend’s Championship clash with Featherstone.

York coach James Ford said: “Jacob is a young middle with good ball skills and a very good approach to developing his game.

“I enjoyed working with him previously and I’m looking forwards to coaching him again.”

Gannon said: “I’m really excited to have the opportunity to play at York and to gain valuable experience playing in the Championship.”