FORMER Wigan Warriors boss Denis Betts has been linked with a coaching role at Widnes Vikings which could mean a management reshuffle with Paul Cullen moving upstairs to take up a more ‘strategic’ role.

Betts, 40, who left his skills and development post at Gloucester Rugby Union in June, could return to the game at Stobart Stadium to work alongside his former Wigan team mates Terry O’Connor (Sporting Director) and Mick Cassidy (strength and conditioning coach).

Cullen is currently in New Zealand on a scouting mission as the club looks to build for the new season in February and of course the imminent announcement of a Super League franchise which the club hope to land in March.

Betts has been linked with other posts, most notably for the England coaching job, before the Rugby Football League gave it to ex-Bradford head coach Steve McNamara.

The Vikings are favourites to get a Super League licence and as owner Steve O’Connor has stated previously that the club fully intends to spend its full salary cap in year one, to hand stewardship to the highly tried but unproven Betts will raise eyebrows.

Super League-winning coaches like Brian Noble, Ian Millward and Brian McClennan would all be tempted by a chance to coach Widnes and, it would be no surprise, if one of those names were also linked to the former World champions.

In other news young Widnes centre Dean Thompson is attracting attention from Steve McCormack’s Swinton, the club that has already signed ex-Widnes skipper Mark Smith. Lee Doran, Widnes’ player of the year last season, is also rumoured to be on his way to the Manchester club.