Monday 11 September 2017 11:18, UK
Widnes have signed Australian forward Will Matthews on a two-year deal from St George Illawarra Dragons.
Matthews, who can play at prop, as a second-rower and loose forward, made his NRL debut in 2008 for Gold Coast Titans.
He moved to the Dragons in 2012, where he earned selection into the NSW Cup representative squad in both 2013 and 2015.
The 29-year-old has played almost 100 league games and represented Australia at youth level.
"We have been interested in Will for some time, so I am very pleased to have secured this deal," Vikings coach Denis Betts said.
"Will is a quality player and will add a lot to the team with his experience of playing in the NRL. He is strong and carries the ball well, but can also offload and support attacking plays effectively too.
"I have also been impressed by his character and his excitement for taking on a new challenge at Widnes Vikings. I'm looking forward to him linking up with the team next season."
"I'm delighted to be joining Widnes Vikings," Matthews said. "I've always been interested in playing in the UK, so it is great to have this opportunity to do so at the Vikings.
"I've spoken to a lot of people who can't speak highly enough about the country and the competition, so I'm sure this will be an exciting new chapter for me and my family.
"I'm looking forward to getting out there next season and playing in front of all the supporters."
