Evalds addresses fans following decision to leave Salford

Salford fullback Niall Evalds has responded after it was confirmed he will leave the Red Devils at the end of the season.

The club released a statement yesterday confirming the news and saying they were “extremely disappointed” by his decision, as well as claiming he was 48 hours away from signing a new deal following months of negotiations.

The 26-year-old has now, to a certain extent, had his own say on the matter, releasing a statement to fans on Twitter in which he thanked the fans, teammates past and present, coaching staff, physios, conditioners, his sponsor and his family.

He then went on to say: “I’ve made the decision to leave the club at the end of the season and start a new chapter in my career. I know many of you won’t be happy with my decision but it’s one I didn’t take lightly.

“There has been a lot said about me over the last few days, but I don’t want that to tarnish the many happy memories we’ve shared.

“Much of the stuff said has been an inaccurate version of events and one day I will share my side of the story, but for now I want nothing to distract me and my teammates from achieving our goals when eventually we are back playing.

“As always I will continue to give everything for this club and the fans until the last match I play for Salford.

“Thank you to the many Salford fans who’ve sent supportive messages, however to those not so kind please be respectful that my partner and family can read what has been said about me. Words hurt. Mental health is real.

“I also want to add that this is a decision I made by myself, agents are there to guide players and ultimately the decision was mine and mine alone.

“Once again I’d like to thank you all and hope everyone is safe and well in these difficult times.”

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— Niall Evalds (@NEvalds1993) May 13, 2020