Salford Owner On The Attack

Salford Red Devil’s owner Marwan Koukash has launched an attack on Salford City Council during a fired up press conference.

Koukash said promises were made by the council and those promises haven’t been fulfilled and claims the authority owes the club £800,000.

However in a statement a council spokesman said the council was disappointed by Koukash’s comments.

“The club only survived because of the intervention of Salford City Council and the Rugby Football League. We are grateful to Dr Koukash for taking over the club but need to stress that he willingly signed a legal agreement to take on the debts of the former club. It is not unreasonable, therefore, to expect him to honour that agreement and continue repaying that loan.

“It is wholly untrue to say Salford City Council owes the club money and that is in the hands of our legal people.

“It is also wholly untrue to say Salford City Council has not supported the club. Salford City Council has offered extensive support to keep rugby superleague in the city. This is to support fans, maintain jobs and to protect our investment in the stadium which is a catalyst for regeneration.

“We are very disappointed by his comments today but remain committed to working with Dr Koukash and the club in the interests of the people of Salford.”

Koukash also took aim at Kevin Locke after the New Zealand player claimed he was owed £52,000. Referring to alleged emails from Locke, the club owner confirmed Kevin had requested to be released from his contract. The club have accepted Locke’s request saying he is no longer a Salford player.

Despite all the turmoil there was some good news for fans with the announcement that Tim Sheens has been appointed as Director of Rugby.

The 64-year old Australian won the 2005 National Rugby League title with the Tigers.