The Sports Lowdown For All Your News and OpinionsWhen Dr Marwan Koukash first took over Salford, fans were optimistic that his wealth would transform then into genuine a genuine Super League force.
Despite a number of high profile signings, Salford have failed to make the play-offs in the two seasons Koukash has been at the helm and this week off the field events continued to paint the club in a negative light.
Iestyn Harris has finally officially left the club as Head Coach. The news comes as no real surprise, especially as Harris had not taken charge of a game since late June. Harris failed to pull up any trees at Salford but the way he has been treated by the club beggars belief. This is not the first time there have been coaching problems in the Koukash era, with Harris’ predessor Brian Noble being sacked as Head Coach only to be offered a Director of Rugby role, which he turned down.
To add to the problems, star player Rangi Chase has been suspended by the club. Neither the club or players have given any indications as to what the suspension is for, but it now looks likely that Chase will not be at the club next season. This comes just weeks after Theo Fargas, another high profile recruit, had asked to the leave the club.
Salford are currently fighting for their place in Super League next season and are competing in the Qualifiers. They have had a reasonable start, beating Leigh, Wakefield and Halifax. However, a heavy defeat to Bradford means their place in next season’s Super League is by no means certain.
With the amount of money Koukash has invested in the club, there can be little doubt he has the club’s best interests at heart. However, if Salford can qualify for Super League next season, he may be advised to take a back seat approach and allow his next choice of coach to manage team selection and recruitment.
