Salford Red Devils coach opens up on Sam Stone departure, new signings and Hull FC

Krisnan Inu was in the hot seat this week for Salford Red Devils as they held their weekly press conference. 

Discussed was the departure of Sam Stone, who has left the club to join Warrington Wolves on loan, the arrivals of Tom Whitehead and Dan Russell, and how he expects Hull FC to shape up. 

Stone was part of the initial 18-man squad ahead of their game against St Helens, but two days before kick-off, head coach Paul Rowley stated that one player had ‘downed tools’ and refused to play. After the 46-4 home defeat, Rowley spoke to Sky Sports to confirm that Stone was the player in question. 

Inu described the impact it had on the camp, and how they will not let it affect them as they approach the next few weeks. 

“How it happened was a tough one to swallow. We understand the situation everyone has been in in the last few months. I think everyone is in the same boat, and I think Rowls [Paul Rowley] answered it for all of us really.” 

He added: “It hurts, but we’re not ones to sulk and cry. We have a job to do, and we’ve got the boys to manage it in their own way. It is a distraction, but I think we’re pretty good to get over those things quick and focus on what the next job is.” 

As part of his move to the Wolves, Warrington have sent youngster Tom Whitehead and PNG international Dan Russell on loan in the opposite direction.  

“They’ve just had their first run,” Inu said. “They’re good, able bodies. They’re good for the squad. They look positive, they look like they fit in and are enjoying their time with the boys so far. We’ll see how they are closer to the game.”

Russell is the first loan signing that has much notable experience for the Red Devils, which Inu says can only be a bonus: “We just needed that hole filled, that position helps. He comes with experience so that’s a plus for us.”  

Chris Hill and Shane Wright returned to the side last week, which was another positive hand for Salford. 

“They’ve been awesome,” the assistant added. “They are big, able bodies, and their voices on and off the pitch are huge for the boys”. 

Salford Red Devils injury news

Inu also discussed some injury news. Kai Morgan left the field half way through last week’s game, whilst Joe Mellor doesn’t seem far away. 

“Joe is looking alright. We’ll see how he goes during the week and see if he’s ready come weekend time,” he said before joking: “Kai is okay, he just wanted a breather by the looks of it.” 

The defeat to St Helens makes it 10 games in all competitions without a win. They face Hull FC this weekend and Inu will be hoping to see his side give a good showing of themselves. 

“[Hull FC] are playing well this year,” he said. “Started well but got a few injuries themselves, like us. We’re still expecting a good team, they’ve got a good squad so we will be ready for the fight.” 

It will be the first time Salford have faced the Black and Whites in 2025, and are still waiting to play Warrington. However, they have already played the Saints and Leeds Rhinos twice. Inu issued a short statement on his thoughts regarding loop fixtures and the absurdity of the current fixture lists. 

Inu gave a short, but strong answer disagreeing with the current scheduling. 

“To be honest, I think it’s stupid , but that’s all I can say.”