THE question about Salford Red Devils’ future continues to rage and has done for almost a year.
It was November last year when warning bells first sounded, as the Super League club asked for an advance on their central distribution funding to the tune of £500,000.
Since then, the Red Devils have lost 16 players, suffered financial issues and a new ownership group has destroyed its relationship with the long-suffering fans.
Following the cancellation of Sunday’s fixture against Wakefield Trinity due to a lack of players, Salford supporters took to the streets to protest against the ownership group in charge of the club since February.
With concerns about the Red Devils’ ability to finish the Super League campaign, there have been a number of questions raised about the potential repercussions from rugby league’s long-time broadcaster, Sky.
But RL Commercial managing director Rhodri Jones insists that Sky have never mentioned any cost for the sport.
“It’s never been a suggestion in the liaisons I have had with Sky over the course of the season about Salford,” Jones said.
“They have been fully aware of the challenge we face and Salford have faced and, as you would expect, I speak to them on a regular basis to make sure they are across it and not reading things before they hear it from me.
“We’ve never had a conversation about if Salford would go and if there would be consequences and punishments.
“I think it’s people assuming an outcome rather than the actual reality.”
Jones was also asked if he was confident Salford will fulfil their remaining fixtures.
“Last night was encouraging when Salford said they would fulfil their fixture against Leigh,” he said.
“I think it’s a week-to-week thing and I’m confident that everyone will help to get them through the final five fixtures.”