As the Super League season draws closer, we look at how Salford Red Devils will go in 2021.
Salford have a new coach in Richard Marshall as they look to improve their league position and mount a push for the top-six after making some exciting off-season signings.
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
Signings
Embed from Getty ImagesJoe Burgess, Morgan Escare, Jack Wells (Wigan Warriors), Sebastine Ikahihifo, Oliver Roberts (Huddersfield Giants on loan), Harvey Livett, Declan Patton (Warrington Wolves), Sam Luckley, Darcy Lussick (free agents), Danny Addy (Leigh Centurions), Matty Costello (St Helens), Elijah Taylor (Wests Tigers)
Departures
Ed Chamberlain (London Broncos on loan), Gil Dudson (Catalans Dragons), Niall Evalds (Castleford Tigers), Mark Flanagan (retired), Connor Jones (Featherstone Rovers), Joey Lussick (Parramatta Eels), Tyrone McCarthy (Leigh Centurions), Luis Roberts (Swinton Lions), Kris Welham (Featherstone Rovers), Luke Yates (Huddersfield Giants)
First Five
St Helens (A), Hull FC (H), Catalans Dragons (A), Leigh Centurions (H), Castleford Tigers (H).
WHAT TO EXPECT
Embed from Getty ImagesIt’s all change at the AJ Bell Stadium this season after former coach Ian Watson’s surprise departure to Huddersfield Giants and, whilst many might expect the Red Devils to struggle, their recruitment looks strong enough for the club to challenge for a play-off place.
Indeed, the likes of Joe Burgess, Morgan Escare, Declan Patton and Elijah Taylor should make Salford exciting to watch in 2021 and help them deal with the departures of Niall Evalds and Gil Dudson who were instrumental in the club’s success in recent years.
Burgess, in particular, is one to watch this campaign having scored 107 tries in just 127 games for Wigan and adds some much-needed try-scoring nous out wide. Taylor brings a wealth of experience at loose forward having played over 150 games in the NRL and has represented New Zealand at international level.
Salford couldn’t have a tougher game to start the season, travelling to reigning Super League champions St Helens but should pick up points in the middle of the season before facing a tough final two fixtures against Warrington and Saints.
FEARLESS PREDICTIONS
Embed from Getty ImagesTop Tryscorer – Joe Burgess
Top Pointscorer – Krisnan Inu
Club Player of the Year – Krisnan Inu
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