Salford have confirmed that Australian forward Shannan McPherson will miss the rest of the season after tearing his medial knee ligament during the City Reds’ 32-10 defeat by St Helens last Friday.

McPherson, who has made a big impact in Stobart Super League since joining from South Sydney in the winter, was carried off 15 minutes from the end of the match and sent for scans which revealed the extent of the damage.

Salford lead physiotherapist Matt Jenkinson said: “Shannan has a significant MCL tear and is out for the season but no surgery is required which is good news.

“It’s very disappointing for all involved but he will be back with no long-term problems next season.”

McPherson’s absence will be a blow for Salford ahead of Friday night’s clash with Warrington Wolves at the City of Salford Stadium.