Salford City Reds expect to be without Wayne Godwin, their only experienced hooker, for up to two months with rib cartilage damage.

The former Castleford Tigers and Bradford Bulls player picked up the injury in the early stages of the Reds’ opening Stobart Super League defeat by Castleford at the new Salford City Stadium on Saturday and was taken to hospital in considerable pain.

"He's out for a while," said Salford coach Phil Veivers. "It's probably worse than a break."

Utility player Stuart Howarth took Godwin's place against Castleford until being knocked out after being hit in the face by the ball but he is expected to fully recover in time for Friday's visit to St Helens.

Salford's only other recognised hooker is 19-year-old Gareth Owen, who made three substitute appearances in Super League in 2010.