exclusive by Ian Cheveau

SECOND row sensation Simon Finnigan has been one of the finds of the Super League season for Neil Kelly's Widnes Vikings.

And in an exclusive interview the 21-year-old player - who was born in Warrington but raised in the sunnier climes on Sydney suburb Penrith - has told the World of his desire to commit himself to a long-term contract with the Vikings.

Finnigan arrived at the Halton Stadium almost a year ago and, after breaking into the Widnes first team, earned himself a one-year deal with the club.

Since then, despite breaking his elbow in Round 14 at Halifax, he has become an integral part of the first team squad.

But, with his name now being mentioned as a possible future international, other clubs have awoken to the fact that Finnigan is available - and not on the Overseas Quota - for Super League IX.

But the player himself wants to stay put.

"I'm really happy and settled in Widnes," he said. "I've really enjoyed my rugby this year under Neil and that is something I want to continue. But it really depends on the talks between my agent and the club."

The Vikings may have to move fast if they want to keep hold of the youngster as Finnigan revealed that there is a considerable amount of interest from other clubs.

"My agent is looking after my interests here, and there are a few clubs who are having a good look at me and are interested in what they have seen.

"The thing is I really want to stay here as Widnes is my second home and I'm hopeful my future lies here.

"It's been a very exciting year for me at the club, and I'm gaining a lot of confidence through playing week in week out and I'm learning a lot from Neil and the coaching staff, so I'm very optimistic about my future. Ideally I'm after a two year deal."

He added: "My agent is locked in negotiations with the relevant people at the club. I'm in no doubt that things will work out for the best and with any luck that will mean I will remain a Widnes player."