FORMER Warrington Wolves full back Brett Hodgson has impressed Widnes Vikings so much this season that he has been signed up for the next two years.

Hodgson, a Lance Todd Trophy winner in an outstanding spell with Wolves, bowed out of the club on a lower note after missing out on selection for the 2013 Grand Final against Wigan Warriors.

Since the start of the year, and after hanging up his playing boots, the 35-year-old has been working with Vikings in a part-time capacity as a coaching consultant.

But from November he will join the Vikings back-room team and become one of Denis Betts’ assistants on a two-year contract.

The Australian, who also played for Huddersfield Giants in Super League as well as Wests Tigers and Parramatta Eels in the NRL, has made a big impact at Vikings where he has been coaching the outside backs and halves across all levels.

“It’s a challenge I’m really excited about. I’m keen to progress as a coach and this is the next step for me," said the 2009 Man of Steel Award winner, who kicked 315 goals and scored 39 tries in 75 appearances for Warrington.

“I’ve just been trying to get my experience across to the players and I’m really excited by the opportunity Widnes Vikings has given me.

"The club is really moving forward and I’m looking forward to being a part of it.”

Wolves will get to see close-up some of the impact Hodgson has had on his new club when the sides meet up for their first duel of the season at The Halliwell Jones Stadium on Good Friday, April 18.

Vikings head coach Denis Betts said: "We’ve seen already what great value he can offer the club and its players and for him to be around in a full-time capacity will only enhance our environment.

“I’ve been on the lookout for a specialist coach in certain key areas and Brett fits the bill perfectly. He’s made a difference in the short time he’s been here and we will look forward to him being around over the next few years.”