Salford Red Devils player ‘refuses’ to play ahead of rumoured move to Super League rivals

Salford Red Devils have been dealt yet another blow with one of their 19-man squad reportedly refusing to play against St Helens.

That’s according to Sky Sports commentator Mark Wilson who shared the news on the broadcaster’s coverage of the game and via his own personal social media.

Paul Rowley had named a 19-man squad for the game but named just 17 on matchday with no 18th man available, reportedly as a result of a late withdrawal.

Introducing the team news, Wilson explained: “The first thing we notice about Salford is that they’re down to the bare bones and Paul Rowley can name only 17 players today.

“He had hoped to name 18 but suffered a late withdrawal with a player refusing to play this morning. We expect further news on that.”

Wilson had also posted on X, stating: “Salford Red Devils can only name 17 players today. Paul Rowley furious that one of his team who was in the matchday 18 has refused to play this morning. Expect further departures this week.”

Sam Stone reportedly set for Salford Red Devils’ exit

Wilson would ask for the thoughts of his co-commentator Terry O’Connor, who went even further as he named the player ‘rumoured’ to be leaving whilst also revealing the possible destination.

“We’ve got to address the fact that someone has pulled out of the Salford side,” Wilson explained, addressing O’Connor: “I know it’s a bug bear of yours Terry with a player refusing to play and expected to leave the club this week.

“It’s more disappointment and a kick in the teeth for Paul Rowley and (the player’s) teammates.”

To that, O’Connor said: “The rumours are that Sam Stone doesn’t want to play today and he’s rumoured to be going to Warrington. He’s only played on two occasions this year and it’s so disappointing for the fans that turn up and support Salford.

“They’re doing it really really tough and I’m sure there’s a lot of clubs watching the situation unfold at Salford.”

Stone could be the latest to leave the club after Nene Macdonald was allowed to return Down Under on unpaid leave earlier this week.

After just 10 minutes, Salford are already 10-0 down against St Helens with the Red Vee having beaten the Red Devils a whopping 82-0 in Round one of Super League.

So @SalfordDevils can name only 17 players today. Paul Rowley furious that one of his team who was in the matchday 18 has refused to play this morning.

Expect further departures this week.

Salford v @Saints1890 is live @SkySportsRL from 2.55pm.

— Mark Wilson (@MarkWilsonRadio) June 15, 2025