Salford Red Devils without star winger for round one clash with Leigh Leopards

It had been reported this week that Paul Rowley had a bare-bones squad to select from for his side’s Super League opener, however he has named a 21-man squad to travel to Leigh.

Plenty of big names are missing but Rowley’s men still look strong as they travel to the Super League new boys in the televised fixture on Friday evening.

https://twitter.com/SalfordDevils/status/1625885349242175489?s=20&t=DafIEKX6Qm6y_SePCXfxSQ

The major miss for Salford is winger Joe Burgess who had formed a brilliant partnership with centre Tim Lafai throughout the 2022 season.

Despite missing Burgess the rest of the back line looks strong with Scotland international Ryan Brierley sitting behind a presumed four of Ken Sio, Deon Cross, Tim Lafai and then Rhys Williams.

New skipper Kallum Watkins could always revert back to his traditional centre position but he’s transformed his career as a second-rower under Paul Rowley and will likely fill out a pack that has new signing Oliver Partington featuring.

Salford will face a Leigh side that have impressed during pre-season but will have a tough task incorporating their huge number of signings.

Leigh have promised “the best freaking night of your life” to fans with plans for a concert pre-game as well as half-time entertainment.

Pairing that with the optimism around Salford following an impressive year in 2022 the Red Devils have sold out their allocation for the Friday fixture, a great achievement considering it’s a televised game.

Speaking of Round 1️⃣… we are now 𝗦𝗢𝗟𝗗 𝗢𝗨𝗧! 🚨

Tickets already purchased can be picked up from the stadium until 3pm on Friday, after which, they will be taken to Leigh Sports Village.

𝗦𝗘𝗘 𝗬𝗢𝗨 𝗔𝗟𝗟 𝗙𝗥𝗜𝗗𝗔𝗬! 🤩

💪 #TogetherStronger | 🔴👹

— Salford Red Devils 👹 (@SalfordDevils) February 15, 2023