Samoa star Tim Lafai signs contract extension with Salford

Salford have tied down Samoa World Cup hopeful Tim Lafai to a new deal that will see him remain with the Red Devils until at least the end of next season.

The 31-year-old centre arrived at Salford in January as Paul Rowley’s second signing as head coach. He has impressed during his first taste of Super League.

Rowley said: “We’re really pleased to have Tim extend his stay at the club.

“Myself, the staff and all the players really appreciate Tim as both a player and a person.

“He’s a fantastic lad who has really bought into the culture we are growing at the club.

“I’m sure he will play a big part in the club’s growth and progression moving forward.”

RED DEVIL: Tim Lafai loving his time in England so far

Salford chief delighted to keep hold of Tim Lafai

Lafai made 170 appearances in the NRL for St George Illawarra Dragons and Canterbury Bulldogs between 2011-21.

He was won 13 caps for his native Samoa and has played in two World Cups. He also played four times in the Nines World Cup in 2019.

Red Devils director of rugby and operations Ian Blease said: “Bringing Tim to Salford was a signing we all put a lot of thought into.

“However, given Tim’s previous NRL career, we became certain that Tim would hit the ground running in Super League and would prove to become a success at the club.

“We’re extremely happy that we put our faith in Tim as he’s been a tremendous addition to the group since pulling on the Salford shirt and has been one of our standout players every week.

“Taking the option up to have him with us for another year was an easy decision. Hopefully we can do work on something more long-term with Tim as he carries on to progress at the Red Devils.”

LOVE RUGBY LEAGUE: All the latest news, Podcast, App & Fantasy RL