FORMER Wigan and Widnes forward David Allen is to rebuild his career with ambitious National League club Oldham after completing a two-year drugs ban.

The 23-year-old made 25 appearances for Widnes in 2006 and had signed a new contract with the Vikings shortly before testing positive for the use of a recreational drug.

Oldham chief executive Chris Hamilton said: “The Oldham club does not condone the use of drugs, recreational or performance enhancing, and we have a very strong stance on that.

“In David’s case, he made a mistake and paid a heavy price for it. He is a player of immense talent and at the time he was banned the rugby world was his oyster.

“We spoke at length to both David and his father about what had happened and we believe that if any club can provide the right environment for David to rebuild his career, put the past behind him and rekindle the form he was showing two years ago, that club is Oldham.”

Allen, who has been working for his father as a painter and decorator during his suspension, said: “I’m made up that Oldham have given me this chance and I intend to take it with both hands.” Tweet