AS the supporters come to terms with losing linchpin Kevin Brown to bitter rivals Warrington, Widnes Vikings are set with the task of spending their windfall wisely on strengthening the team.

Denis Betts moved quickly to name Joe Mellor as Vikings’ number 6 for the 2017 Super League campaign, and Tom Gilmore being promoted to the number 7 jersey.

With quality and available halves as rare as hen’s teeth it may be that Widnes use the money freed up by Brown’s departure elsewhere.

It will cause some teething issues, given Vikings have moulded the way they play the game around Brown since he joined the club in 2013.

Widnes were at pains to stress in their statement that they had received an unsolicited approach for their skipper — and they then sought instruction from the player before proceeding.

Brown’s wish was for the club to negotiate his transfer to the Wolves — with an undisclosed transfer fee paid.

Brown said: “I was very happy at Widnes; I wasn’t thinking about the chance of moving on even when the space opened up at Warrington with Chris Sandow leaving.

“I was excited about the new season and the players Widnes had brought in, which is what made it a tough decision when Warrington did come in with an offer.

“At the end of the day, it was too good a chance to turn down.

“I realise some fans will not be happy but it was a real joy to represent the club.”

With a transfer fee pocketed and substantial space freed up on the salary cap Widnes will check out what is available at this late stage.

Vikings chief executive James Rule said: “We can now look forward to being in a position where we can explore the available players that can enhance our team in the 2017 season.”