COACH Brian Noble has urged his players to write their place in the Wigan history books.

The Warriors travel to the Halton Stadium tomorrow to take on old rivals Widnes in the fourth round of the Carnegie Challenge Cup.

The Cherry and Whites have an illustrious record in the competition - lifting the trophy 17 times, the last of which was in 2002.

But the JJB boss is keen to look forward rather than back and, with the final set to return to Wembley this season, wants his players to take their own place in the club's folklore.

"The tradition and the history of the club in relation of the Challenge Cup is nothing to do with this crop of players," said Noble. "They've got their chance to write their own history and destiny, and they are very keen to do well.

"But we know it's all about performance and it can all turn horribly wrong if we don't perform."

Noble is refusing to take the National League One side for granted, especially with the Vikings possessing eight former Wigan players, including the prolific Denis Moran.

"It will be a really tough challenge," said Noble, whose side are look for a fourth successive victory.

"Our improvements are there for all to see in the last few weeks and it's important we continue with those improvements and that's the goal we've set the players.

"There are some emotional issues for some of the Widnes team but that is nothing to do with us. There are a number of players who have played for the Wigan club and they will be determined to do well against us.

"The crowd will be vociferous and they have Super League aspirations. We had a dress rehearsal at Hull last week where the crowd is similar, but we will need to match the desire and enthusiasm that Widnes will want to show."

One player vital to the visitors' hopes of preventing an upset is Trent Barrett, the world-class Australian stand-off who has been instrumental in Wigan's upturn in fortunes.

"He's been a great acquisition and very influential in what we do," admitted Noble. "But he will be the first to tell you that he needs help with that.

"We've got some good players around him; Thomas Leuluai is growing every game, both our No9s are becoming more influential, (Iafeta) Paleaasina and (Stuart) Fielden and front rowers are doing their jobs."

Noble confirmed his 18-man squad for the game (kick-off 2.45pm) with Michael Withers, still struggling with a rib injury but expected to recover in time to face St Helens on Good Friday, and Eamon O'Carroll missing out.

l Noble has vowed to help new Great Britain coach Tony Smith in any way he can.

The former Lions chief will be happy to speak to his successor Smithabout any aspect of the national job.

"I will fully support Tony Smith in relation to international football because I believe in it," said Noble. "I'll speak to him and I'm sure he will give me a ring.

"I'm a big fan of the national game and for me to stick my head in the sand after I've had my go would be ridiculous."

Noble believes the 40-year-old has the right credentials for the position. He added: "He has a great work ethic and has the interests of the British game at heart."