Salford Red Devils sweating on squad fitness ahead of opening round
Paul Rowley head coach of Salford Red Devils during the Super League media launch at Science and Industry Museum, Manchester. Photo by Mark Cosgrove/News Images
Salford Red Devils head coach Paul Rowley has revealed that he will only have 19 fully fit players for their opening Super League clash against Leigh.
The Red Devils travel to the Leigh Sports Village on Friday, with Leigh owner Derek Beaumont putting on a show pre-match with confirmed fire and aerial performances, plus a full 40-minute set from Scouting for Girls.
Rowley and his Salford squad will be looking to spoil the party, with the game live on Sky Sports. But the head coach admits the side have been hit by numerous injuries.
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“Numbers are an issue, straight away,” Rowley said on his first pre-match press conference of the year.
“We couldn’t have named a team on Monday, and on week one that’s not a healthy position to be in.
“We’ve got 28 players, one player off with long-term sickness with no return date. So effectively, we’ve got 27 players.
“We’ve got two players who are long-term, maybe round five or round six. The rest round three-ish. I think we’ve got 21 players to choose from, 19 of which are fit.”
One of those players expected to miss the opening clash is star winger Ken Sio. The 2022 Super League Dream Team selectee picked up a knock in the pre-season win over Swinton, failing to appear against Wigan the week after.
“Ken Sio is another who is down for round three,” Rowley confirmed. “But we might put him in the squad somewhere so it looks prettier. It’s an injury he picked up against Swinton.”
Forward Adam Sidlow is also doubt, but he is expected to be named in the squad. Sidlow previously told Love Rugby League during the club’s media day: “I tweaked my calf running after Christmas, but I’ve been here before and I’ll overcome it again.”
Sidlow continued: “I think looking at the fixtures, we play Leigh four times! It’s going to be a good season. I look forward to playing them and hopefully they look forward to playing me.”
Rowley remains positive
Despite the concerns, Rowley remains upbeat about the season opener and says he is looking forward to another “rollercoaster” season with the Red Devils.
Salford made it all the way to the semi-finals in 2022, only falling short 19-12 to eventual champions St Helens at the Totally Wicked Stadium.
“Round one is not healthy, but that’s the excitement of coaching and supporting Salford. It’s a rollercoaster,” Rowley added.
“Everyone in our squad is more than capable.
“I’m looking forward to getting the season started and up and running. It’s going to be a great first game with a wonderful atmosphere.”
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