Salford sign Cory Paterson

Former Hull KR backrower Cory Paterson has signed a one-year deal at Salford Red Devils.

The 27-year-old, who qualifies internationally for Scotland, recently left Wests Tigers to embark on a career in professional boxing.

Despite winning his second fight this month with a technical knockout, Paterson has now decided to return to the rugby field.

“It became apparent this week that Cory wanted not only to get back into rugby league but also that he really wanted to do so with us,” said Red Devils owner Marwan Koukash.

“The deal has moved very quickly and Cory will join us in January on a one-year deal with an option of a second. It is a great opportunity for both parties.

“Cory will come in and make our pack even stronger and for him it allows him the opportunity to continue to prove himself at the highest level.”

Paterson, who has mace 100 NRL appearances, will line up in the Salford pack alongside another recent recruit in Scott Taylor. He spent a year at Hull KR in 2013.

Koukash hopes that the player’s arrival will help to excite his club’s fans into buying more season tickets.

“This has been the second year of massive personal investment from me into our squad and we are all very excited about 2015,” added Koukash.

“It is now up the supporters to turn out in great numbers, bringing their friends and family along to see what it is we are building here.

“We need their assistance now in the next stage of growing the Red Devils into one of the biggest names in the sport.”