Widnes bring in Warrington youngster on dual-registration

Widnes Vikings have announced the signing of Warrington forward Morgan Burgess on dual-registration ahead of Sunday’s clash against Featherstone.

The Vikings head into the game off the back of a six-game losing run in all competitions. A run which saw Simon Finnigan part company with the club on Tuesday.

He has made one Super League appearance with the Wire, in their defeat at Wakefield Trinity in 2021.

The England academy international can either play in the props or in the second row. He joined Warrington from the community side Barrow Island.

Burgess will provide some much-needed cover for a Widnes side that have struggled with injuries in recent weeks. In the forwards, Levy Nzoungou and Shane Grady are long-term absentees. Aaron Brown and Tyler Dupree have also been missing, with Ramon Silva also returning to Wigan.

However, they will be boosted by the signing of Burgess, and the possible return of Liam Bent, who missed their defeat against Batley after picking up a head knock during their match against Leigh.

Widnes looking for new Head Coach

Widnes have confirmed they have parted company with head coach Simon Finnigan by mutual consent.

The Vikings lost their sixth match in a row in all competitions on Sunday. They fell to a 38-10 defeat to Batley.

A statement from the club says: “We would like to place on record our sincere thanks to Simon for his efforts during his time as head coach since joining in November 2020.

“Simon’s efforts as head coach at Widnes Vikings are greatly appreciated. He leaves with our best wishes for the future.

“The squad has been blighted by injuries in recent weeks, but we recognise that results have not been good enough regardless of the circumstances.

“Performance Manager Ryan O’Brien will be supported by senior players and staff within the Club as interim head coach while the search for a new permanent head coach commences.”

Read More: Widnes part company with Simon Finnigan