Akauola to return to Wire side for Salford clash, plus Burrell and injury update

Head coach Steve Price surprised many when he left the Tongan prop out of his matchday 17 for Saturday’s win at London Broncos.

He reiterated that the popular powerhouse was merely being rested and that he is ready to be unleashed upon the Red Devils.

“Sitaleki will come back into the team this week – I just felt he needed a bit of a rest at London,” he said.

“It’s always good to have big powerful bodies and we’re very lucky to have them.”

Rugby union convert Luther Burrell made his Wire debut in the 36-6 victory at Ealing Trailfinders and could get his home bow, but Price did not rule out a more phased introduction to the game and him missing out.

Luther Burrell could make his home debut on Friday. Picture by Mike Boden

“With Luther it is baby steps at the moment rather than big ones,” he said.

“He ticked a few boxes in his limited game time at the weekend.

“It’s about doing the basic fundamentals of rugby league right consistently. Once he does that, we’ll build another block.

“He’s been really good in and around the organisation. Whether he stays in the 17 or not this week, time will tell.”

Co-captain Chris Hill remains suspended so Jack Hughes will once again lead the side.

The game comes a week too soon for Ben Murdoch-Masila (ankle) to return but it is thought he could be in contention for next week's trip to Castleford Tigers.

Stefan Ratchford (pectoral) and Kevin Brown (Achilles) remain sidelined, with Price confirming there were no other injury worries for Friday’s game.

Ryan Atkins underwent surgery on a wrist injury yesterday and will be sidelined for an extended period.

> Atkins set for spell on the sidelines