RYAN BRIERLEY has left Oldham to become chief executive of the new Salford club.
Brierley spent almost four years with Salford Red Devils as a player, scoring 35 tries in 95 appearances for his boyhood team.
He left in August amid the club’s serious financial issues, which culminated in being wound up earlier this month, joining ambitious Championship outfit Oldham on a two-and-a-half-year deal.
But the 33-year-old – who has a degree in sports business management – is now returning to Salford after a consortium fronted by another former Red Devils player, Mason Caton-Brown, was chosen to form a phoenix club.
Following Super League relegation, Salford begin the new Championship season at home to Brierley’s old club Oldham on Friday, January 16, giving him little more than three weeks to lead efforts to build a squad.
“It’s an honour to now lead this consortium and to help guide Salford into a new era,” said Brierley, who also played for Leigh Centurions, Huddersfield Giants, Toronto Wolfpack and Hull KR in collecting over 300 career appearances.
“I’m asking everyone for patience and support as we rebuild together one step at a time, united for the club and our city.
“I am looking forward to working closely with Mason Caton-Brown, who has spearheaded the bid in the last few weeks, backed by a superb team that has overwhelming passion for Salford rugby”.
Caton-Brown is one of three directors of Salford RLFC Ltd, the new company forming the club, alongside Malcolm Crompton, former chairman of the Forever Reds Supporters Trust, and businessman Paul Hancock.
Local technology entrepreneur Ashley Washington also supported the consortium while Cas Paton, the founder of online marketplace OnBuy.com, is a strategic partner.
Experienced Scotland international Brierley played five times for the Roughyeds, including their play-off eliminator defeat to Halifax Panthers.
Oldham said in a statement: “The player informed us this week of his desire to be released from his contract to pursue another opportunity, to which we have agreed.
“Everyone at Oldham wishes Ryan every success in his new venture, and we thank him for his efforts in an Oldham shirt.”