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The eagle has landed

Liam Chronnell
7/ 5/2004

REDS' new Aussie signing Kevin McGuinness arrived on Tuesday promising to spark Salford's season into life.

And the Reds received a double boost when old boy Nathan McAvoy rejoined the Reds on Wednesday following a spell at rugby union's Saracens.

But while local lad McAvoy is unlikely to play in Saturday's crucial encounter with London Broncos, McGuinness, 27, is expected to go straight into the action.

The former Manly Sea Eagles star joined his new team mates in training this week and is eager to help reignite Salford's season after a run of 10 successive defeats.

"I'm just delighted to finally be here," said the pacey utility back, who would have arrived sooner had it not been for problems in securing a work permit. "It will be up to the coach whether I'm involved on Saturday but I'm keen to play."

"I've played more than 170 games in the NRL and I can bring a bit of experience and spark to the team."

He added: "I've been speaking to the Aussie players two or three times a week. I played with Mark Shipway at Manly and with Joel Caine at West Tigers, so I know them quite well. They've told me a lot about the passionate supporters. I'm pretty confident I can help turn things around."

McAvoy, who was released by Saracens, has returned to the Willows after just one season at Vicarage Road. The 27-year-old centre enjoyed five years with Salford before signing for Bradford Bulls in 1998.

Director of football Steve Simms said: "He will bring a bit of solidity to the backline. He's big and strong and he can break through the line."

"Nathan trained on Wednesday and did very well but he's not played for a while. If he doesn't play this week, then he'll definitely take part in the Castleford game."

Simms also revealed the Reds were looking to sign a forward next week.

Meanwhile, Salford's Mark Shipway has been ruled out with a chest injury, while London captain Jim Dymock will miss the game after undergoing a knee operation.