Star centre Lafai confirms Salford departure

Tim Lafai played two Super League games for Salford this season

Tim Lafai has become the latest player to announce that he is leaving troubled Salford Red Devils.

The Samoa centre is heading back to Australia to be with his family after spending three seasons with Salford.

Lafai, 33, scored 21 tries in 63 Super League games for the Red Devils and helped the club reach the play-offs in two of his three campaigns.

His departure follows that of half-back Marc Sneyd to Warrington Wolves and prop Brad Singleton's switch to Castleford Tigers.

Salford are 11th in the Super League after a very difficult start to the season.

They have been under sustainability cap restrictions amid continued financial uncertainty following a proposed takeover, with head coach Paul Rowley unable to select his strongest team.

Delays in funds being transferred by the investment group headed by Swiss banker Dario Berta also led to February's wages for players and staff being held up.

Now Lafai has been granted an early release from his contract.

He played for his country in the World Cup final in 2022, and also made it into the Super League Dream Team that year after starring in an exciting Salford side.

They finished sixth that year, seventh in 2023 and fourth last season with Lafai a big weapon in their side and he leaves with good memories of his stint in England.

"The boys I've played alongside present and past, it's been a rollercoaster of a ride, but one of the best times I've had here," Lafai told the club website.

"One of the best playing groups and the staff who always made me feel welcome, put up with my nonsense – it's been a great time."