Trio return to fray for Devils home clash

CAPTAIN Michael Dobson, hooker Logan Tomkins and in-form centre Kris Welham all return to the Salford squad for tomorrow’s visit of Wakefield to the AJ Bell Stadium.

The trio were rested for the second match of last week’s bank holiday double header, but the Red Devils were still able to record an impressive victory over Warrington, following up the comprehensive defeat of Catalans on the Friday evening.

“In terms of points, it was a really good weekend for us,” said coach Ian Watson. “We played really well in both matches, especially with it being over such a short period.

“The Warrington game was probably the pick of the pair, with Catalans being depleted through injuries, though we did show against them that we were able to be ruthless when the situation required.

“Warrington on the other hand was a different challenge, at a different level, because they have a very good squad. They had had a run of good results, so it was important we showed that – even away from home – we can compete with one of the most talented teams in the league.”

On his return from injury, Todd Carney turned in a trademark performance and retains his place in the 19-man squad. With the regular half-back pairing of Dobson and Rob Lui also included, Watson has a big decision to make in the playmaking positions.

“It’s a great headache to have and it’s what I asked for at the beginning of the season.

“It is good to have such intense competition for places with everyone vying with each other to be selected.” Tomorrow’s fixture against Trinity could be considered something of a dress rehearsal, with the two clubs to meet again in less than two weeks in the quarter finals of the Challenge Cup.

However, Watson insists his team will not allow the upcoming fixture to impact their approach.

“We will in no way be thinking about the Challenge Cup when we play them on Sunday. In fact, we have two really important league games before that, with this game and then against Hull, the following week.”

In addition to the return of last week’s rested trio, George Griffin is named in the matchday squad after missing the past six fixtures.

Wakefield have lost Tinirau Arona, Jacob Miller and new signing Adam Walker to long-term injuries in the last week, while full-back Scott Grix and Danny Kirmond will also miss out.