Former Newcastle NRL back-rower Chris Houston has been named co-captain of Super League club Widnes in the UK.

The 31-year-old Houston will lead the Denis Betts-coached side along with Joe Mellor while Aaron Heremaia and Tom Gilmore have been made vice-captains.

“I have been involved in leadership roles throughout my career and I am looking forward to building on this experience at Widnes Vikings,” Houston told the club’s website.

“The club has some outstanding young players and I’m looking forward to supporting them.”

Houston played 160 games for the Knights before joining Widnes in 2016.

Widnes kick off their Super League campaign against Huddersfield on February 10.