Salford Red Devils confirm Leigh clash despite mounting crisis

Salford Red Devils to field loanees as financial turmoil sparks supporter protests

The club has confirmed that their Super League fixture against Leigh Leopards will take place on Friday, despite the deepening crisis at the club.

Author | Josh T

The match goes ahead just days after Salford were forced to cancel their scheduled game against Wakefield Trinity on Sunday. That decision was made on welfare grounds, with only two senior players available to take the field.

A constantly evolving crisis

The Red Devils’ difficulties have been mounting throughout 2025. Financial problems have prompted an exodus of established professionals, leaving the squad threadbare and heavily dependent on loanees from other clubs. 

On Tuesday the club announced the temporary signings of Hull KR back-rower Leon Ruan, centre Louix Gorman, Leigh centre Jack Darbyshire and Wakefield winger Neil Tchamambe. Their arrivals follow assurances given on Monday evening that players returning from injury, together with loanees with top-flight experience, would allow the fixture against Leigh to proceed as planned.

Emotional scenes after the recent thrashing at Hull KR

Salford remain rooted to the bottom of Super League, with just two wins from 21 matches this season. The campaign has been overshadowed by uncertainty about the club’s finances and doubts over its long-term future. Earlier this month the owners issued a statement insisting that the club would not be closing, despite fears among supporters.

Off the field, the turmoil has intensified. Last week, chief operating officer Claire Bradbury resigned and alleged that members of the club’s ownership acted inappropriately towards her. The club responded by saying a thorough internal investigation would be carried out.

Tensions have been reflected among the fanbase. Around 500 supporters marched on Sunday in protest at the way the Red Devils are being run, demanding greater clarity from those in charge. 

Their concerns have also drawn political attention. The mayor of Greater Manchester, Andy Burnham, has said he is monitoring developments closely, though so far no formal intervention has taken place.

Friday’s fixture against Leigh will therefore be played under the shadow of wider instability. For many supporters, the immediate hope is simply that their team can put a side on the field and restore some sense of stability in a season dominated by turmoil.