Scrum-half Matty Smith has come through the ranks at Knowsley Road

St Helens scrum-half Matty Smith is to join Salford for the 2010 Super League campaign on a season-long loan.

The 22-year-old has spent this season on loan with Celtic Crusaders and is expected to be a straight replacement for Warrington-bound Richie Myler.

Salford director of football Steve Simms is excited by the signing.

"Matty is one of the best up-and-coming half-backs in the country and he was looking to move back up this way so we've taken the opportunity," he said.

"It's a 12-month loan deal and, after that, we'll see what happens. We look forward to him joining us for pre-season training."

Smith has endured a difficult season with the struggling Bridgend club, missing 12 games with ankle and elbow injuries.

"I'm absolutely made up to sign with the Reds," said Smith. "I've had a good time at Celtic and enjoyed it a lot, but it's been difficult living away from home so it will be good to be playing back up north again."

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