Salford confirm dual-reg partner

Salford Red Devils have announced a dual-registration partnership between their reserve side and Swinton Lions.

The agreement will see some Salford reserve players get the chance to play Championship Rugby.

Head Coaches Ian Watson and Stuart Littler both played together during their careers, and this will extend their current partnership.

Salford Director of Rugby Ian Blease has also played with the pair during his playing career.

Blease said: “This reserves setup will provide more opportunity for players from across Salford and the Greater Manchester area to play at a professional level and that is a key part of my strategy for the game’s growth within our club and the region as a whole.

“Players will therefore be developed, under our clubs badge and will then be capable of making an impression in the Betfred Super League and Betfred Championship over time.”

Lions Head Coach Stuart Littler added: “It’s outstanding news for the Lions to be collaborating with Salford Red Devils in respect of a Reserves team, and a big thanks goes to everyone involved at both clubs for getting it up and running.

“The Reserves programme will give us another platform in which we can develop our players. Over the last few years we have had a few lads who haven’t quite made our matchday squad, who have then had nowhere to play and develop.

“Every Rugby League player wants to be out on the pitch, so we are delighted to have this new opportunity. All of our players should now be match ready when called upon, which will allow our squad to remain fully focussed throughout the season.

“I am really looking forward to watching the scheme progress.”