VIKINGS return to Super League action on Friday night with a derby clash against league leaders Warrington.

Denis Betts’ men come into the game refreshed after some of the squad sat out the Challenge Cup thumping of Rochdale Hornets.

It is not that long since the sides met on Good Friday, in a game which the Wolves eventually prevailed, and Betts expects another tough derby against a side who have recruited strongly for this term.

Betts said: “Some lads have had a good break this weekend and not played to get themselves ready for this next push into Super League.

“What better way to do that than a big local derby against a side that many tip to be there or thereabouts for the end of the year.

“They are one of the sides that went out this year and put a marker down with their recruitment.

“There has been a lot of talk about Chris Sandow, but Kurt Gidley has been one of the acquisitions of the year. He has been good for them and is energy and organisational skills are what Warrington have been after for some time.

“They have gone out to strengthen the team across the board. We are expecting a tough tussle, just like the last one.”

Although Vikings have a relatively fit squad, the club are bracing themselves for bad news on Alex Gerrard’s knee.

“We have got some bodies back and I am expecting not far off a full roster to select from, so that is going to mean some tough choices.

“Alex Gerard is injured and being assessed but the possibility of him not playing again this year is looming high.

“I think we are looking at some major knee surgery.

“That could be a big blow for us and a bigger one for Alex if he cant play,” Betts said.

Meanwhile Tom Gilmore was due a scan on his shoulder injury – which has possibly popped out and back in.