WIDNES Vikings have captured winger Corey Thompson on a two-year deal.

Thompson will join the Club ahead of the 2016 season from NRL team Canterbury Bulldogs.

Denis Betts commented on the new signing: “This is a real coup for us. Corey will bring some great experience to our squad. He has is a proven try scorer.

"He has scored tries in Grand Finals and regularly in the NRL. He’s got some utility value as well.

"He has played on the wing for most of his career with Canterbury Bulldogs but he can also play in the halves and at fullback. He will add some quality to our outside backs that will push on the players we have already got in our team already to get better.

"The priority now is to keep striving – to add quality people to drive our organisation forward.

"It is great that everyone around the Club has bought into what we are trying to achieve. We have had some fantastic financial support from the Vikings Quids In Scheme, VIQI, to be able to secure Corey Thompson for next year.

"This is a stable organisation with great aspirations. Corey wants to play for a side that is pushing for the top half of the table. Through our recruitment this year of Chris Bridge, Charly Runciman, Setaimata Sa and Corey Thompson, we have got people that will bring in proven quality both from the NRL and internationally.

"We brought four players in last year and four players in this year. Our recruitement is not a haphazard process. Every year we have looked to add people so that we can keep developing the high quality of people we have got here at Widnes Vikings.”

Jason and Joanne Shaw manage the Vikings Quids In Scheme.

"Jason commented on the new signing: “We are delighted to have been able to support the Club financially with such a great signing for next year’s Super League campaign.

"The VIQI scheme has now raised in excess of £150,000 and is deemed one of the longest serving sponsors of Widnes Vikings.

"The fans in the scheme deserve recognition for the part they have played in so many influential signings over the years. Together with Joanne, I would like to thank our members for their ongoing commitment to VIQI and the Club.”

James Rule added: “I would like to express my gratitude once again for the support of the VIQI members.

"The financial support offered by VIQI has been integral to us securing the signatures of Danny Galea, Manase Manuokafoa and Gil Dudson.

"That support has now assisted the Club in signing Corey Thompson. Everyone associated with the Club is very grateful for their continued support.”

Corey Thompson will be sponsored by JBM Group.