Karl Guttenbeil to trial with
Vikings

Widnes Vikings are set to give a month?s trial to New Zealand A international Karl Guttenbeil.

The 22-year-old centre or second rower from Bartercard Cup side Marist Richmond Brothers spent two seasons in the New Zealand Warriors development squad, while he completed a degree in Business Studies in Auckland. With his studies now complete the 6?3" 14st 7lbs brother of Kiwi international Awen Guttenbeil is ready to return to full-time rugby league and Widnes coach Frank Endacott is happy to give him a chance.

Guttenbeil, who has a Tongan passport, will arrive in the UK in early January and is expected to play in the pre-season friendlies against St Helens on January 20 and Leigh on January 30. "Karl is a big strong lad who I think has a chance to make a name for himself," said Endacott.

"He?s got good pace, is a regular try-scorer and a half decent goal-kicker so we?ll give him a chance and see how he goes."