Salford coach Paul Rowley discusses options in absence of England star

Salford coach Paul Rowley says they have a couple of options to fill in for the absent Andy Ackers at Magic Weekend, with the latter ruled out.

England international Ackers is out of Saturday’s game against Hull KR at St James’ Park after failing his head injury assessment in last Sunday’s 29-22 win over Hull.

It was his second head knock in a short period of time, so he will see a specialist on Friday as per the concussion protocol guidelines.

But the good news for Ackers and Salford is that he is feeling okay now and isn’t suffering from any further symptoms.

“He was good straight after the head knock to be fair,” Rowley said.

“He took a heavy head knock, knocked him out obviously but his symptoms were nothing after and he has been great since that point so there should be no issue with his return and hopefully it is the shorter end when he sees the specialist on Friday.

“I would suspect the Cas game (next week) will come to soon, so hopefully the week after.”

Ackers’ absence sees young hooker Amir Bourouh brought back in to Rowley’s 21-man squad.

The 22-year-old former Wigan hooker has recently spent a short period with Swinton on loan in the Championship, playing at the Summer Bash last weekend.

“He’s the second hooker in the squad if you like but we’ve got some options there with Chris Atkin as well,” Rowley said.

“I’m not sure which way we’ll go with that one. Danny Addy is in the squad as well who can comfortably play nine. We’ve got a few options.”

Paul Rowley praises Salford’s utility man

Last week, the Red Devils confirmed that utility back Chris Atkin had signed a new two-year deal, keeping at the AJ Bell Stadium until at least the end of 2025.

“I actually think as a player he has come on leaps and bounds in the last couple of years,” Rowley said.

“He has a lot more composure about him and by having that, it has helped him with his versatility.

“It was probably always there but he was always chasing one particular role but I think he’s accepted and embraced the fact he’s a utility player and understands what his role is within our team.

“As a result of that, he’s respected by us lot in the team and the staff and he’s been fantastic for us.

“It’s brilliant that he’s re-signed, we love spending time with him, his input has been invaluable on and off the field so we’re pleased to have him here.”

Salford take on Hull KR in the first game of Magic Weekend in Newcastle, 1:30pm kick-off.

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