Ratchford injury blow for Reds

James Gordon

Salford stand-off Stefan Ratchford will be out of action for a month after picking up a shoulder injury.

Ratchford, 21, picked up the injury during the 22-14 win over Catalans last weekend, and it was first feared he would miss the rest of the season.

Head Coach Shaun McRae said: “Stefan has undergone a scan and both nerve and muscle damage has been diagnosed.

“At first he felt his season was over because he could hardly move on the way back from France. It’s a pity to have lost him because he was just finding his way into the team again.

“He’s one of the best utility players we have at the club and will go on to be one of the best in the game but we just have to battle on.”

Salford are hoping to welcome back forwards Rob Parker (hand) and Luke Adamson (shoulder) for Friday’s clash with Warrington, while Australian prop Ray Cashmere has resumed light training after sustaining a chest injury against Castleford earlier in the season.