MANU Vatuvei has suffered a cruel blow on the eve of the Super League season.

Meanwhile, Toronto have signed a former Wests Tigers forward, and a request for Robert Lui has been denied.

Get all the latest from the northern hemisphere in this week’s edition of Exile Files.

THE BEAST’S HEARTBREAK

Salford have confirmed Manu Vautvei suffered a suspected serious Achilles injury during pre-season training last week.

Vatuvei, a fan favourite at his former club the Warriors, only joined the Red Devils midway through the 2017 season year and has so far made eight appearances for them.

With their round one game against Wigan on February 2, it’s a huge blow for the team.

“It’s terribly unfortunate that Manu has sustained an injury this close to the start of the season,” Salford coach Ian Watson said.

“Manu has been terrific for us since signing midway through last season and he is a massive asset for the club both on and off the field.

“I really feel for Manu because I know how much he was looking forward to getting back out playing.”

EX-TIGER JOINS WOLFPACK

Following the shock sackings of Dave Taylor, Fuifui Moimoi and Ryan Bailey, Toronto have moved quick to sure-up their forward stocks by signing former Wests Tigers prop Jack Buchanan.

The 25-year-old made 41 appearances for the Tigers before moving to Super League outfit Widnes where he played a further 40 games.

Buchanan had returned home to Australia after departing the Vikings, but will now jump back on a plane.

“The attraction to the Wolfpack for me was the chance to be a part of something new and exciting. There is a very promising squad with great coaching staff so I am very grateful to be a part of it,” Buchanan said.

“The main goal would be promotion to Super League but personally I want to get over there, get stuck in and play some consistent footy.

“I had a great time in England but I’m very appreciative to be able to do what I love in a foreign country, especially with the opportunity to play in Canada.”

LUI RELEASE REJECTED

Salford have rejected a contract release from Hull KR for former NRL halfback Robert Lui.

Lui has two seasons left on his deal with the Red Devils.

A statement from the club said: “Salford Red Devils can confirm that the club did receive an offer from Hull KR for Robert Lui which was promptly declined.

“We understand that Hull KR have since moved on to secure a halfback elsewhere.”

Salford’s coach Ian Watson went to the trouble of visiting Lui at his home to assure him he’s still wanted at the club.

“Funnily enough, I’ve just been straight from his house to here,” Watson said during a BBC Radio Manchester when asked about the situation.

“And I’ve had that discussion with Robbie himself and his family.

“It’s been an interesting day all round — a long day, to be fair. Robbie’s a Salford Red. Robbie loves being at Salford and wants to stay at Salford and wants to kick on from what we did last year as well.”

SENE-LEFAO KEEN TO STAY

Former Manly and Cronulla forward Jesse Sene-Lefao says he’s keen to remain at Castleford.

The Tigers’ fan favourite, played in last year’s Super League grand final, is off contract at the end of the season.

“Someone give Cas a nudge to sign me up,” Sene-Lefao joked to TotalRL.com.

“I want to stay. My family is happy here but there are a few things they need to sort out upstairs.

“I just have to worry about football, that’s why I’m here, I’ve come to do my job.

“Everything outside of football will look after itself.”

CANINE PITCH INVADER

A Challenge Cup match between Rochfield Mayfield and Crosfields had to be halted over the weekend when a dog ran onto the field.

Check out the footage below.