The 27 year old has suffered a nightmare start to the season, a six-week absence with a knee injury that required surgery compounding some much-publicised off-field controversy.

Heaton, the former Widnes player, was handed an eight-month prison sentence, suspended for two years, at Warrington Crown Court after pleading guilty to assaulting his girlfriend last year.

"It's not been easy for anyone, but it's not something I really want to talk about," said Heaton.

"I am a rugby league player and I cannot wait to get back to playing regularly.

"The knee is okay now. I had a problem with my knee cap and cartilage that needed a bit of a clean out, but I have been doing the rehab work properly and hopefully I will get the rewards."

Heaton played 60 minutes for Karl Fairbank's side against Dewsbury at the Shay last night as they came from 20-6 down early in the second half to win 24-20.

Another of Matt Calland's senior squad, wingman Andy Smith, who started in the centre after on loan Leeds threequarter Mike Ratu withdrew before kick off with a reaction to his knee injury, bagged a last quarter hat trick to guide Fax home.

Impressive hooker Stuart Proctor and Australian trialist Justin Hill were also on the scoresheet, with centre Chris Holroyde kicking two conversions.

And now Heaton is hoping he has done enough to figure against the Rams' top side on Sunday.

"There's a lot of competition for places, and the team is playing well, but hopefully I will be involved," said Heaton.

"It's down to Matt at the end of the day and what he wants to do.

"If I don't get in, I will just keep my head down, work hard and wait for my chance."

Salford's 24-22 victory over Celtic Crusaders last night means second-placed Fax will leapfrog the Reds if they beat the rock-bottom Rams by 15 points or more.

"It would be nice to be top, that's for sure," said Heaton.

"But it's where you are at the end of the season that counts, not in May, so we won't be getting carried away whatever happens."