Manu Vatuvei will miss the start of the Super League campaign

Salford have suffered a major blow a week before the start of the new Super League season with Manu Vatuvei sustaining a suspected serious Achilles injury.

The 31-year-old wing is awaiting the results of a scan to determine the severity of the injury, which he suffered in training on Friday.

Vatuvei, part of the New Zealand squad which lifted the World Cup a decade ago and turned out for Tonga in last year's edition, joined the Red Devils towards the end of the 2017 campaign, scoring five tries in eight appearances.

Salford head coach Ian Watson said on the club's website: "It's terribly unfortunate that Manu has sustained an injury this close to the start of the season.

"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."

Salford open their Super League campaign next Friday when they welcome Wigan to the AJ Bell Stadium.