Salford activate Super League release clause to sign Josh Johnson

Salford have signed former Hull KR prop Josh Johnson from Barrow.

Johnson, 24, made his Super League debut against the Red Devils while at Huddersfield back in 2013.

He said: “I’m made up to be joining Salford.

“I’m grateful for the opportunity and just can’t wait to get stuck into training.

“It’s been a crazy few weeks for my agent, with clubs contacting him, as soon as I heard Salford were interested my decision was made though.

“They’ve been playing really well this year and Ian’s (Watson) proven himself as one of the best coaches in Super League, so I think he can take my game up a few levels.”

Johnson made 36 appearances for Huddersfield, as well as having loan spells at Doncaster, Batley and Oldham.

He moved on to Hull KR in 2017, making 19 appearances, as well as turning out for York and Leigh, before switching to Barrow for this season.

Coach Ian Watson said:  “Josh is a player we’ve been keeping our eye on for a while and was receiving attention from other Super League clubs.

“He’s a tough, no-nonsense forward, who carries the ball strongly.

“He’s massively developed this season, playing consistently and working with Paul Crarey.

“It’s a good addition for us at a time when we need competition in the middle.”

Johnson goes straight in to contention for Salford’s trip to Warrington on Friday night.