After losing important players Andy Ackers and Brodie Croft, who both transferred to Leeds Rhinos in a transaction worth over $300,000, Salford Red Devils are facing a significant challenge in rebuilding their spine.
The urgent question at hand right now is who can effectively fill the roles of halfback and dummy half in light of the loss of these two crucial players.
Although the NRL, Queensland, and New South Wales Cups have no shortage of possible prospects, Salford may want to look closer to home by considering players with Super League experience. Having stated that, there are various possibilities.
Brent Austin Austin is a former Castleford Tigers player who has played in the Super League. He might not be able to demand as much of a wage as he formerly did because he is a free agent. This would make him a desirable choice for Salford, especially in light of the fact that he intended to sign with Featherstone Rovers should they be promoted to the Super League. He is still willing to visit the UK, therefore.
Cade Cust: Cust, who is a desirable option geographically, seems to be leaving the Wigan Warriors. He might be viewed as a long-term fix for Salford’s back problems. His adaptability and youth may enable him to contribute significantly to the team.
Joe Lovodua: Lovodua has experience at both positions while being primarily a hooker. He is available and might provide the kind of utility Salford needs in the absence of Ackers and Croft because of his recent split from Hull FC.
In addition to these choices, Salford might look into Championship players who are both affordable and hungry to succeed. With pre-season barely around the corner, the team is in a unique position where they must quickly rebuild its spine.
Coach Paul Rowley will surely work to put everything in order before the season begins because the spine needs a lot of care and chemistry-building during the offseason. Marc Sneyd, Chris Atkin, and Ryan Brierley are still at his disposal, but he is managing a small team and needs to replace Ackers and Croft.
