 In July 1996, he joined Workington Town on loan, where he played in the Super League for the first time.He returned to the Salford Reds for the 1997's Super League II, making 27 appearances for the club.Following the signings of Martin Crompton and Josh White, despite being a firm club favourite Watson was deemed surplus to requirements, and was sold to the Swinton Lions for a fee of £15,000.