Salford Reds are poised to swoop for an Australian back rower to replace Phil Bailey, whose contract has been terminated.
Former Test star Bailey, who joined Reds from Wigan in the off-season, has been forced to retire having been dogged by major injury problems.
Bailey's departure from the Willows provides Reds with a vacancy on their overseas register and they need back row cover.
He ruptured his Achilles playing for Wigan and missed most of last season.
Bailey never played a competitive game for Salford after tearing his calf just days before the opening game against Crusaders.
Bailey said: ”I wish Salford every success in the future.
“I'm very disappointed not to be part of their exciting future plans but I have to accept this decision and will be retiring.”
Caretaker coach Steve Simms said Reds had done everything in their power to try and get Bailey fit but it was not to be, hence the need now to find a suitable replacement.
Reds, meanwhile could take more than 20 players to France for Saturday's Super League clash with Les Catalans.
What do you think? Have your say.
Salford Reds' Phil Bailey retires
March 22, 2011
Comments
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Sad news when any player is forced to retire with injury, but what were Salford thinking in signing a player was prone to such niggles?
Agree with the "Outsider", the Reds should have been more circumspect before signing such an injury prone player. Let's hope that they find a suitable replacement -one who is not injury prone. torred
unbelivable - who the devil are salford fitness guru's big daddy/giant haystacks -
20 players to France?
Can we sneak them all on at once?
Bloody back luck for PB
But what honesty he has shown, and i for one would like to wish him all the best in what ever he decides to do in the future.
Wigan fans say Bailey is a very good player, that was also followed by 'if you can keep him fit'. Good luck in what ever you do Phil.
Been told we've been asking about Martin Gleeson! not sure whether that would be good or bad. Would like to see a prop come in on loan leading up to easter. Dont know how much Jordan James is playing or if we could Jamie Thackery from Barrow. It could also give Feka time to get fit, then theres 'cash the bash', he'd prob be due a ban by easter.
Did he get a signing on fee, if so will he be giving it back - suspect not! Just waiting for more news like this re Anderson. Hope Gleeson can keep fit.
And why is the immediate reaction to go looking for an Aussie? Whoever it is please put them through a vigorous medical before signing them.
Good luck in France boys would be great to kick on from Friday nights superb performance.