New Salford Red Devils’ captain reveals depth of leadership group for 2023

Following their squad number announcement for 2023 Salford Red Devils announced their new skipper with England international and centre turned second-rower Kallum Watkins taking the armband.

The position was vacant following 2022 captain Elijah Taylor leaving for Championship favourites, Featherstone Rovers, and it’s one that Paul Rowley has filled with the experienced Watkins.

The vice-captains remain the same with both Marc Sneyd and 2022 Man of Steel winner Brodie Croft occupying those positions.

Speaking on the club website, in a video posted to the team’s Twitter page, Watkins revealed what the pair will offer as he takes on his maiden campaign as captain.

“They’re two really experienced guys that have played in the big games, Brodie played in Australia with the Melbourne Storm. How much better experience can you get?

“Obviously Sneydy had a great time playing here early in his career and then  a great stint at Hull winning trophies there.

“They’re two players that will help control the game, direct us and for me I know that when I’m on the field I’ve got a job to do and they’ll help me in terms of controlling the game.

“Any advice from me is for both of them to be themselves and I’ll be myself and we’ll work together to get the best possible outcome.”

"ᴛʜᴇʏ'ʀᴇ ᴛᴡᴏ ᴠᴇʀʏ ᴇxᴘᴇʀɪᴇɴᴄᴇᴅ ɢᴜʏꜱ"

Club captain, Kallum Watkins says he's looking forward to working with vice-captains, Marc Sneyd and Brodie Croft across 2023. Click the link below to watch in full…👇

💪 #TogetherStronger | 🔴👹

— Salford Red Devils 👹 (@SalfordDevils) January 20, 2023

Salford shocked many in 2022 as they finished sixth having just avoided relegation in 2021 when they finished 11th.

The ever-present Ken Sio top scored with 26 tries, many of which were created by Croft, whilst the change of position for Watkins also paid dividends.

They’ll head into 2022 chasing another playoff appearance and with the addition of players such as Adam Sidlow, Sam Stone and Oliver Partington among others.