Salford have suffered a major blow just a week before the start of the new Betfred Super League season after announcing Manu Vatuvei has suffered a suspected serious Achilles injury.
The 31-year-old wing is awaiting the results of a scan to determine the severity of the injury, which he sustained in training on Friday.
Vatuvei, who was part of the New Zealand squad which lifted the World Cup a decade ago and turned out for Tonga in last year’s edition, joined the Red Devils towards the end of the 2017 campaign, scoring five tries in eight appearances.
❌ Salford Red Devils winger Manu Vatuvei has sustained a suspected serious Achilles injury today in training and the Club are awaiting results of a scan to determine the extent of the damage.
Read ➡️ https://t.co/UfByCSXt5J pic.twitter.com/6dBmylb4vs
— Salford Red Devils (@SalfordDevils) January 26, 2018
Salford head coach Ian Watson said on the club’s official website: “It’s terribly unfortunate that Manu has sustained an injury this close to the start of the season.
“Manu has been terrific for us since signing midway through last season and he is a massive asset for the club both on and off the field.
“I really feel for Manu because I know how much he was looking forward to getting back out playing.”
Salford open their Super League campaign next Friday when they welcome Wigan to the AJ Bell Stadium.
