The experienced Reds forward also predicts exciting times lie ahead for the City Reds. He is backing Salford to be one of the 14 clubs selected next Tuesday to land a franchise. Highton is convinced that the Reds are in pole position among the National League contenders to be awarded a return ticket to Super League.
He said: "I am very confident that we will be selected. I always have been and returning to Super League would be the making of this club. We would quickly build up our fan base - we saw it happen for Sale. They've been successful and we too can also become a top club with good support. The future for Salford is extremely bright.
"I believe Salford are worthy of being back in Super League. The city and the region is what Super League is all about.
"Our chairman John Wilkinson is a magnificent ambassador not only for the club but for rugby league. We are a very stable club. He has never run Salford into debt or administration and the staff are very experienced. Everything is geared towards Super League.
"It's understandably a bit tense as we wait for the result. We're talking about people's livelihoods and next Tuesday really is D-day."
Highton, who is enjoying a well-earned testimonial, admits that awaiting the franchise decision is like waiting for important hospital test results.
He is quick to point out how a number of players have contracts that hinge on them having the chance to play Super League again. Highton has suffered relegation with Salford in the past and bounced back. He believes Salford have some of the finest young players within the British game.
He adds: "The criteria laid down in the franchise calls for this kind of thing and we certainly have plenty of talent coming through. This is why the future is bright."
GREAT Britain Community Lions failed to qualify for the Quad Series Final in Australia when they went down 52-6 to NSW Jim Beam Cup Select. Lions' star man Tony Baker (Ince RB) set up the try for Sasch Brook. Tweet
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Salford have the basis of an SL team, the potential of great support and the prospect of an up to date stadium. Now all we need is for the RFL to do the obvious thing and promote them to the SL. The cold facts, not politics ,should dictate which teams enter the SL. Surely Widnes and Salford stick out like a sore thumb! Torred