CHRIS Dean has become the latest first team player to commit his future to Widnes Vikings for the 2019 season.

The second-rower joined the club initially on a loan deal in 2008, before returning to the Halton Stadium in a permanent move ahead of the 2012 Super League season.

Dean has since gone on to make 155 appearances for the Vikings and is one short of reaching 200 for his career, crossing for 34 tries in black and white.

Last season, the 30-year-old featured 14 times for the Vikings as his campaign was limited due to injury, managing to cross the try line five times during 2018.

Dean said: “I feel really happy to be committing to Widnes for at least one more year and secure my future at the club.

“This will be my eighth season here and it has really helped me to establish myself as a professional player. The club has a big future with all the young lads pushing through at the minute and I wanted to be a part of that.

“A few of the lads have already said they were part of the team that got relegated, and it is motivating now for us all as a playing group to hopefully be part of the team that gets promoted back to Super League.

“The Championship is a very physical league, so a competitive pack is a must. We have the majority of our experience in our pack this year so it is vital that we get the team going forward and lead the way for our youngsters to thrive.

“Last year was devastating to get another long-term injury, especially after starting the season in decent form. However, I'm experienced enough to know it's part of the game and you just have to get on with it and get on the pitch and perform as soon as possible.

“The club has stood by me after two freak years with injury, so I wanted to stay and repay that faith they have shown.

“Widnes needs to be in Super League and we will be giving everything we've got to get back there for ourselves and for our fans.”

Phil Finney, Performance Director at Widnes Vikings, added: “Retaining Chris is a great boost for the club in our efforts to return to Super League next season.

"Chris has been with the club for a number of years and his commitment to us in what is a difficult time is testament to his character.

"Chris is a senior player who is well respected by all of the players, and is someone who will help to drive the standards of the club moving forward.

"He has an excellent work ethic, versatile and is a very consistent performer, and is someone we believe will be integral to us having a successful season.”