VIKINGS boss Denis Betts would like to settle the future of season long loan second row Chris Clarkson.

Clarkson is on a year’s secondment from Leeds and as it stands is set to return to the Rhinos at the end of the season.

But Betts has been impressed with the 25 year-old’s contribution and would like to keep him at the Select Security Stadium beyond October.

He added “At the moment he’s still on loan and still a Leeds player next year.

“I think we’re in discussions now.

“I don’t know what (Leeds coach) Brian McDermott’s plans are for him but I want to retain him here.

“But at the end of the day, if Leeds want to bolster their squad with a good Super League player, they can do that.

“Hopefully we can get it sorted so that Chris knows where he stands too.

“He’s a really solid back-rower and there’s so much more in him. I don’t think we’ve hit his potential yet.

“He’s enjoying his rugby. He’s told me he’s happy here and he likes what we do.”

Meanwhile, the Vikings will go into Sunday’s game at Hull KR without Australian back-rower Danny Galea who injured his hand in the 25-12 loss to Hull last Thursday.

Matt Whitley is likely to revert back to second row from centre with Betts hopeful that Chris Dean will be fit to return to the three-quarter line.