Salford look into Inu's social media support for jailed former team-mate

Salford winger Krisnan Inu is being investigated over comments he made on social media in support of jailed Australia international Jarryd Hayne.

The 33-year-old Hayne was given a prison sentence of five years and nine months on Thursday after being found guilty by a court in Newcastle, New South Wales, of sexually assaulting a woman in 2018.

Inu, 34, who played alongside Hayne for four seasons at Parramatta Eels from 2007-10, expressed his backing on Instagram, writing: "Not enough words can express how I'm feeling for my lil bro.

"Don't think justice was served to its proper intent. To the so called victim. Hope you actually get the help you need, because the things that was said about my boy, wasn't what he's about. Never has, never will be.

"I'm praying for you my Uso. Keep your faith strong like it has been, and let your loved ones come together to help look after your family. Love you Bula.''

Both Salford and the Rugby Football League say they have begun an investigation, with the governing body confirming it has referred the matter to its compliance department.

A statement by Inu's club said: "Salford Red Devils are aware of the social media activity of one of our players over the last 24 hours.

"An internal investigation is underway and there will be no further comment from the club at this time.''

Inu also played in Super League for Catalans Dragons and Widnes and for New Zealand Warriors and Canterbury Bulldogs in the NRL. He is not in the Red Devils' squad for Saturday's Challenge Cup quarter-final against Castleford.

Another of Hayne's former team-mates, Tony Williams, has been sacked by his new club, New York, after claiming the player's innocence in a post to his Instagram account.