Workington youngster gets Widnes opportunity

Widnes have taken teenage prop Jack Gaskell on loan from partner club Workington, for their academy side.

Gaskell, 18, will feature for the Vikings’ Under 19 squad for an initial month, and is set to go straight in for tonight’s game against Wigan.

He signed for Workington as a 16-year-old having previously been at Warrington, and has made a handful of first team appearances for Town.

Director Malcolm Allison said: “Its a fantastic opportunity for Jack to continue his professional development and to gain some experience within a Super League environment. 

“I spoke with Denis Betts and Phil Finney (Widnes Head of Youth) about an opportunity for Jack and they have been tremendous in helping us get this arrangement through. 

“Much has been made of the Super League partnerships in the game at present, but this kind of arrangement is unique in itself and demonstrates the superb relationship we have with Widnes, and also shows that there is more than dual registration to be gained from the partnerships.”