GARETH Widdop will be a Warrington Wolves player in 2022.

The star half-back, named Super League player of the month for May, has been heavily linked with a return to Australia next year, or even this year to make way for George Williams.

But with the protracted move for ex-Canberra Raiders man Williams completed last week, Widdop's future can now be confirmed too.

Warrington Wolves chief executive Karl Fitzpatrick says Widdop, 32, will be partnering Williams in the halves in a mouth-watering combination.

He added: "There has been a lot of rumours Down Under about Gareth.

"But he will be here next year.

"He has been in devastating form and was player of the month. Fans can look forward to seeing them together this year and next."

Williams is likely to make his debut for Warrington next Thursday, July 22, when they travel to Leigh.

The former Wigan man could then make his home debut against his former side at The Halliwell Jones Stadium on Wednesday, July 28.

He has started training with Wolves, although the training ground is closed due to the Covid outbreak which forced the postponement of Sunday's fixture at Hull KR.

No date has yet been rearranged for that clash but with the Robins having seen three games called off already in 2021, it could be that the game will not be played.

Standings this year, as last, will be decided on a win percentage.

Widdop has missed the last two Super League fixtures for The Wire with an ankle injury picked up in the home fixture against Leigh last month.