St Helens have sent young playmaker George Whitby out on a short-term loan with winger Jacob Douglas also following the half-back.
Whitby dropped out of Saints’ 21-man squad that Paul Rowley had named for Saturday’s Super League clash against Castleford Tigers and it’s now clear why, with Whitby set for a loan spell in the Championship.
He and winger Jacob Douglas will join Salford RLFC on short-term loan deals with both players in line to face Halifax Panthers in Sunday’s Championship action.
Salford have heavily utilised the loan system this season after their rebirth following the administration of the Red Devils, who St Helens beat by a record score of 82-0 in round one of Super League last year.
Douglas and Whitby are just two of the most recent loanees to join Salford, who have seen Dave Hewitt confirmed as their permanent head coach with former Super League hooker Brad Dwyer appointed as his assistant.
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A statement from St Helens confirmed the loan moves, announcing: “Jacob Douglas and George Whitby have joined Salford RLFC on short-term loans.
“Salford take on Halifax on Sunday at The Shay in the Betfred Championship. Go well, Jacob & George!”
Douglas, who St Helens signed from rivals Wigan Warriors this off-season, was recalled from his loan at Huddersfield Giants last week ahead of Saints taking on the West Yorkshire club.
During his spell on loan, the winger scored twice in four appearances with the 22-year-old yet to make his Super League debut for the Saints.
As for Whitby, he has not played since round eight with the 20-year-old boasting five appearances for Saints so far this year.
🤝 We are pleased to announce that George Whitby and Jacob Douglas will join us on loan from @Saints1890
Welcome to Salford lads 👹#ForTheCity pic.twitter.com/MjGlGUIL24
— Salford RLFC (@Salford_RLFC) May 21, 2026
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