St Helens view smith as a long term replacement for Sean Long

Widnes Vikings are to sign St Helens scrum-half Matty Smith on loan.

The 20-year-old, will initially join for one month, with a view to extending his stay at the Stobart Stadium until the end of the season.

Smith was a member of Saints' Grand Final winning squad last season, standing in for the injured Sean Long in the play-offs.

Vikings are hoping to bring in at least one more player before Thursday's game against Salford City Reds.