Salford sign experienced centre
14th June 2019 , Emerald Headingley Stadium, England; Betfred Super League, Round 18, Leeds Rhinos vs Wigan Warriors ; Kallum Watkins of Leeds Rhinos during the game Credit: Craig Milner/News Images
Salford Red Devils have completed the signing of Kallum Watkins from Toronto Wolfpack on a three-year contract.
Watkins had signed for the Wolfpack after asking for a release from NRL side Gold Coast Titans. He is also a six-time Super League winner with Leeds Rhinos.
A local lad, Watkins was a season ticket holder at the Red Devils, and was even a ball boy there.
Watkins said: “It’s great to be part of the team and representing Salford will be an honour for me.
“I know it’s been a long time coming in a sense, but I grew up wanting to play rugby league and Salford was key to my development.
“The Club means a great deal to me. If I hadn’t had those opportunities to support the Club and be a ball boy growing up, you don’t know what would have happened.”
Head Coach Ian Watson added: “We are extremely lucky to have been in a position to acquire a player of Kallum’s quality and I’m looking forward to having the opportunity to work with him.
“Being a local lad, Kallum will be embraced by the Salford supporters and I’m sure over the next few years he will prove to be one of the Club’s best signings and it will show a real intent, not only for the remainder of this year, but in 2021, where we should have a phenomenal back line.”