Widnes are ready to fill half-back gap with O'Neill

Widnes could be set to solve their stand-off problems by signing Julian O'Neill from Wigan. The Australian, who had a brief spell with Widnes 10 years ago, was left out of the Wigan team that lost to London last Friday, amid rumours of off-field problems.

The Wigan coach, Stuart Raper, admitted that he had been disappointed with O'Neill's form in his second season with the club but said that he would be considered for Friday's game at Hull.

Widnes, who failed to entice Henry Paul and Tasesa Lavea to the club, say they hope to announce the signing of an overseas stand-off with Super League experience.

Lesley Vainikolo, much criticised during his first season at Bradford last year, has committed himself to the club until at least the end of the 2005 season. The giant winger has agreed an new, two-year contract, with an option for 2006.

The St Helens and Great Britain hooker, Keiron Cunningham, is back in training for the first time since fracturing and dislocating his elbow in the second Test against New Zealand in November. Cunningham's coach, Ian Millward, said that he would not be fit for the Challenge Cup semi-final against Leeds on 12 April and that he is unlikely to be ready for the final in Cardiff two weeks later, should Saints get there.

Two Saints forwards who missed the defeat at Huddersfield on Sunday, Barry Ward and Mark Edmondson, are expected to return for the Super League game against Leeds on Saturday.

Hull KR are hoping to complete the signing of the former London Broncos forward, Anthony Seibold. Although born in Australia, Seibold has a German passport and will not count on Rovers' import quota.