Salford release Manu Vatuvei

Salford have released Manu Vatuvei after he suffered an injury in pre-season.

The 32-year-old joined the Red Devils midway through last season from New Zealand Warriors, where he scored 152 tries in 226 NRL games.

But his time in Super League has been cut short after he sustained an injury in pre-season that would rule him out for the entire 2018 season.

Red Devils director of rugby and operations Ian Blease said: “Unfortunately, the injury Manu sustained in pre-season meant that he would be out for the full season.

“We had hoped that Manu would have played a significant part in our 2018 campaign however we now feel that it is best for both parties for Manu to return home.

“Everyone at the club would like to wish Manu the best of luck for the future.”

Vatuvei, who represented Tonga at the 2017 Rugby League World Cup, is now set for a return to the NRL.

The winger made eight appearances for Salford, scoring five tries.