Super League Countdown - Salford
SALFORD CITY REDS
Coach: Shaun McRae (since June 2007).
Captain: Malcolm Alker.
Previous finishes (most recent last): 6th, 11th, 12th, 9th, 10th, 12th (relegated), 1st (in National League, promoted), 9th, 9th, 5th, 12th (relegated), 1st (in National League, promoted), 13th.
2009 leading scorers: tries - Richie Myler 11; goals - John Wilshere 59; points - John Wilshere 158.
Biggest Super League win: 48-10 (v Wakefield, 2006).
Biggest Super League defeat: 96-16 (v Bradford, 2000).
Ground and capacity: The Willows, 11,363.
2009 average attendance: 4,390 (up 622 on National League).
Record Super League attendance: 8,070 (v Leeds, 2007).
In: Ryan Boyle (Castleford), Matty Smith, Stephen Tyrer (both St Helens via Celtic Crusaders), Daniel Holdsworth (Canterbury Bulldogs), Ashley Gibson, Jodie Broughton (both Leeds).
Out: Craig Stapleton, John Wilshere (both returned to Australia), Robbie Paul (Leigh), Jordan Turner (Hull), Richie Myler (Warrington), Paul White (Halifax), Jason Walton (Batley), Stephen Nash (Leigh).
Player to watch: Stefan Ratchford - while most eyes were on Richie Myler, this utility back seized his opportunity to make his mark as a Super League player in 2009 and he can make even more progress this year.
Rising star: Jack Spencer - teenage forward who made his Super League debut towards the end of last season and is set for more senior appearances this year.
Odds to finish top: 150-1.
Prospects: It was generally a season of struggle for the Reds in 2009 and the prospects do not appear much brighter.
Prediction: 14th.
