Patten and Anderson join Salford petition

A winding-up petition hearing against Salford has been adjourned until January 7th, amidst news that two former players have joined the action.

Luke Patten and Vinnie Anderson both claim to still be owed wages by the City Reds, although the club has reached an agreement with management consultants Steuer Gregsson, who initially forced the petition.

The pair are thought to be owed around £40,000 each under a “salary sacrifice” arrangement which they entered into during their time at the Salford City Stadium – which means they give up their right to receive part of their wage, usually in return for their employer’s agreement to provide some form of non-cash benefit.

A Salford club statement read: “As was reported recently, Salford City Reds were in court this morning in relation to a winding up petition brought by management consultants Steuer Gregsson.

“The result of the hearing was that Steuer Gregsson withdrew the petition as the matter had been settled between themselves and Salford City Reds prior to the court date.

“The hearing was adjourned until 7 January, 2013, due to two players attaching themselves to the petition. However, the club maintains that payments owed to these players will be made on time and in advance of the second court date.

“This matter relates to contractual payments not due to be made until the end of November.

“The club are still in discussions regarding future investment. Meanwhile, we welcome the players back to training in approximately one week and look forward to the new campaign.”

Former Canterbury Bulldogs full-back Patten decided to retire at the end of the 2012 season, while Vinnie Anderson was reportedly not offered a new deal, despite winning the club’s Player of the Year award. He has since signed for French club Carcassonne.