MARC SNEYD will return to Salford next season for a third spell.
The 35-year-old, who left the old Red Devils in March last year for Warrington Wolves as their financial issues worsened, has signed a two-year contract.
It’s a statement signing for the new Salford entity which was put together just weeks before this Championship season.
Having earned a respectable seven wins so far this year, putting them in unlikely contention for a place in the top-ten play-offs, Salford say: “The ambition for 2027 is different – to build a squad capable of challenging towards the top end of the table.”
Sneyd’s commitment is a big deal to chief executive Ryan Brierley, who played alongside Sneyd during the halfback’s last stint at the club.
“Bringing Sneydy back to Salford is a hugely significant moment for our club, and personally it’s one of the proudest moments of my career so far,” said Brierley.
“Marc is someone I’ve shared a dressing room with, someone I consider a genuine friend, and one of the best players this club has ever produced. Our supporters love him, and everyone associated with Salford knows exactly what he represents.
“I know first-hand how difficult it was for Sneydy to leave. To now have the opportunity to bring him home, and give him the chance to finish this chapter in a Salford shirt, feels incredibly special.
“His quality on the field speaks for itself, and he makes everyone around him better. Our young halves will have the opportunity to learn from one of the smartest rugby brains in the game.
“This signing is also a statement of intent. We want to build a team our supporters can be proud of, and bringing a player of Sneydy’s calibre back to Salford shows exactly where our ambitions lie.”
Sneyd came through Salford’s junior ranks to debut in 2010 but left at the end of 2013, first for Castleford Tigers on loan, then to Hull FC.
His seven years at Hull included two Challenge Cup titles, with Sneyd winning the Lance Todd Trophy on each occasion – an award he won a record-equalling third time last season, in a losing Warrington effort.
His second spell at Salford began in 2022, and his performances that year yielded two England caps, including one at the World Cup.
“I spoke to Ryan and the coaches and their ambition really stood out,” said Sneyd.
“The club is at a brand-new stage, but I want to help the club get back to the level the club wants to be at.
“Hopefully next year we can build on what the club has already done this season.”
After being a regular last season, Sneyd has fallen out of favour at Warrington this year, with youngsters Leon Hayes and Ewan Irwin now ahead in their pecking order.
Sneyd said of the Wire: “I’d like to thank everyone at the club for giving me the opportunity at a time when things were tough.
“I’m grateful for the support the club, the staff and the fans showed me and wish everyone connected with Warrington nothing but success for the future.”