Sa'u leaves Salford
18 Jul 2019
Salford Red Devils centre Junior Sa’u has signed for Betfred Championship side Leigh Centurions.
The 32-year-old will now be eligible to compete in the Centurions’ 1895 Cup campaign.
Sa’u said: “It’s sad to leave after six years, but I think it’s time to move on for a fresh start.
“There’s an opportunity to play at Wembley and I’ll be able to rip in week in week out.??
He added: “It was a bit sad telling Watto, because he’s always been there for me and honesty has always been an important part of our relationship.
“I just want to thank him for everything he’s done for me while I’ve been here.
“We’re more than teammates here, they’re family to me.
“It’s a brotherhood and I’m sure they’ll go on to finish in that top four.
“I also want to say thank you to the fans who have been so welcoming to me from day one at Salford.
“They’ve stuck by me and will always have a place in my heart.??
Sa’u first appeared for Salford in 2014 and has represented the club on more than 100 occasions.
Salford Red Devils head coach Ian Watson said: “I won’t need to tell anyone how tough this one is for everybody involved with Salford.
“I’ve worked with Junior for nearly five years now and I’ve seen him grow into an amazing person on and off the field, who’s had a massive impact on me and my coaching career.
“Junior can be very proud of the way he’s represented himself and Salford over the last six years. His performance at the weekend was probably the best way he could’ve signed off.
“I believe Junior’s been one of the best role models for supporters, players and staff of all ages in that time.
“I’ve really enjoyed the relationship between us and it’s sad to see him leave, as we have enjoyed challenging each other consistently to make ourselves better and we will continue to do so in the future.
“Junior’s now accepted a new challenge at Leigh, as he has done through all his career. Junior’s enjoyed a great career, representing New Zealand and Samoa at the highest level and will hopefully get the opportunity to tick off a performance at Wembley in the near future.
“I wish Junior and his family all the success going forward into the next part of their journey.??
With game time limited at Salford, the centre joined Super League side Wakefield Trinity on loan earlier in 2019 and following his move to Leigh could have the opportunity to walk out at Wembley in the final of the inaugural 1895 Cup.
Salford Red Devils director of rugby and operations Ian Blease said: “We would like to wish Junior the very best in this next stage of his career.
“He has undoubtedly been one of the club’s most notable overseas players and has developed a special affinity with our supporters, which will see him remembered here for a long time.
“His commitment to the club extended beyond the field of play and for that reason he became and will remain a significant part of our community.
“There comes a time in the career of every player, where a move is the right decision and this was the right time for Junior.??
