Wood signs new deal with Devils
SALFORD’S Josh Wood has agreed a new two-year contract with the Red Devils.
The 21-year-old has progressed through the ranks at Salford and made his fifth appearance of the season in Sunday’s 29-22 Challenge Cup win over Toronto.
Salford coach Ian Watson said: “Josh is showing great potential as part of the first-team squad, he fits into our team really well and gives us a real threat going forward, as well as being solid in defence.
“With Josh now signed on a longterm deal, I’m sure he can continue to develop and become a really good player with the Red Devils.”
Justin Carney, meanwhile, will be stood down for Salford’s Betfred Super League fixture against Widnes on Sunday after his disciplinary hearing for use of an alleged racial slur was adjourned until next week.
The Red Devils requested the delay and voluntarily suggested the Australian winger not feature in any competitive fixtures until the case is heard.
The hearing had been due to take place yesterday evening at the RFL’s Red Hall base.
The incident occurred during the Challenge Cup victory over Toronto Wolfpack and Salford have been rewarded for that win with a home clash against Tim Sheens’ Hull KR a rematch of last year’s Million Pound Game.
Swinton Lions, who produced the performance of the round to dump Huddersfield Giants out of the prestigious competition, will host Wigan Warriors. The match at Heywood Road will see John Duffy’s side take on their dual-registration partners, who also happen to be the reigning Super League champions.
Meanwhile, Wigan have confirmed that Thomas Leuluai has broken his jaw for the second time in five months.
The New Zealand international suffered the injury against Catalans Dragons at the weekend, but still has metal plates in his jaw that were inserted after he suffered a double fracture when representing the Kiwi national side in November’s Four Nations tournament.
It is an injury that could hit the Warriors particularly hard when they play Salford in a fortnight. Both Sean O’Loughlin and George Williams will miss that match because of international duty with England and young halfback Jake Shorrocks - the most obvious replacement - was recently ruled out for the remainder of the season with a knee injury.