Salford confirm signing of Adam Walker

Salford have signed banned front-rower Adam Walker for 2019.

The Scotland international hasn’t played since testing positive for cocaine while playing for Wakefield Trinity in 2017, but he has been given a second chance by the Red Devils.

Walker began his career with Huddersfield Giants, before making a name for himself at Hull Kingston Rovers. He then had a spell at St Helens and joined Wakefield ahead of the 2017 season, where he picked up his ban.

On signing for Salford, Walker said: “I’m absolutely thrilled to have a club for the 2019 season and I’m extremely grateful to Salford Red Devils for giving me this opportunity.

“From day one speaking to director of rugby and operations Ian Blease and head coach Ian Watson I could see that Salford – as a club – have some real strong beliefs and values that centre around the community and doing good in the local area. I knew straight away that this was the kind of club I wanted to be at.

“I’ve not been perfect in the past. I don’t think anyone is. But you need to learn from your mistakes and develop as a person and player afterwards.

“It’s been a tough few years for myself not being able to play the sport I love on a regular basis. I was suffering from some mental health issues at the time which in turn led to me making a big mistake. I don’t want to use that as an excuse, I accepted and learnt from my punishment.

“In my time away from the game I feel like I’ve matured a lot. I honestly feel I’ve turned the corner, I’ve regained my love for the sport back and I’m ready for the next chapter.”

Walker will be eligible to return to rugby league on March 13.