Ellis Longstaff on Salford move: I feel like it’s my year to kick on

England Knights international Ellis Longstaff feels like his season-long loan with Salford is not only going to benefit him as a player, but as a person as well.

The 20-year-old forward has linked up with the Red Devils for the 2023 campaign from parent club Warrington.

Longstaff has made 14 first team appearances for Warrington but fell down the pecking order in Daryl Powell’s team last year, finishing the campaign on loan at Hull.

But the Yorkshireman is excited for what 2023 has in store for himself and his new club Salford.

“One of the reasons I came here was to benefit me as a player and a person,” Longstaff told Love Rugby League.

“I’m only young and I feel like I’m going to learn a lot from the coaches and the players who are here. I feel like it’s going to be my year to kick on hopefully.

“I’ve bedded in really well. It has been really exciting. Pre-season has been tough but enjoyable at the same time.

“I’m getting to know the lads more and more and I’ve got tight bonds with the players and staff so it has been a really enjoyable move so far for me.

“Rowls (Paul Rowley, head coach) knows what I can do and hopefully with a bit more mentoring from him that I can bring my game on. I’m just learning really and when I get my opportunity I want to take it with both hands.”

International dilemma for Ellis Longstaff

The back-rower or centre has represented England Knights on the international stage. He also qualifies to play for Scotland through his grandparents.

The European Championship is set to take place this autumn, with the Knights and Scotland both taking part.

“I’ve got Scottish heritage but my main focus is England Knights,” Longstaff said.

“I just want to have a good year, my main focus is Salford and whatever comes on the back of that we’ll take it as it comes.

“It’s a privilege to represent my country so if that comes on the back of it then I’ll be really pleased but my main focus is to get myself in the team here first and show the fans and coaches what I can do.

“I sadly lost my grandma two years ago and lost my grandad last year but I’m not going to rule Scotland out because it would be nice to play because of what they (grandparents) did for me, so it would be an honour to represent Scotland.

“Either or, my main focus is Salford and whatever comes on the back of it then we’ll take it as it comes.”

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