SALFORD will have some “good chats” about their expectations for the season now that their takeover and salary cap issues are over.
The RFL approved the purchase of the club by a consortium led by Swiss investment banker Dario Berta last week.
That meant Paul Rowley could pick a full-strength side for Saturday’s game against Leeds, as a reduced salary cap imposed by the governing body was lifted.
The Red Devils – who are under investigation by the RFL for the team selected in their opener against St Helens, when they suffered a Super League-record defeat – were comfortably beaten by the Rhinos but the coach is happy that the focus can return to on-field matters.
“We’re happy to have a start point,” said Rowley.
“Regardless of it being our first game or not and whatever excuses we can throw in the mix, we’d rather be honest with each other.
“There will be some good chats from the weekend. It will give us an opportunity as coaching staff to provide some clarity of expectations to players.
“We won’t hold back on that, even if we are behind the eight-ball. They’ll accept it. They want it as well. They’re a good group.”
Rowley admitted the strain that the whole saga had put on him and added: “I’ll be honest, a week on holiday would be pretty good. You don’t get a chance to think.
“It’s great that the club is now in a forward-thinking position. However, as a coach it’s always what’s next. Onwards and upwards, really.”
Last week, new part-owner Berta made his first public statement since becoming involved in the Red Devils.
The ownership group also includes Berta’s business partner, Kurt Graver, plus Saia Kailahi – a music promoter believed to be a friend of Salford assistant coach Krisnan Inu – and Curtis Brown from Jacobsen Venture Group.
Berta said: “Our vision as a consortium is to not only achieve success in Super League and domestic competitions, but to also strengthen our ties within the community, invest in the club infrastructure, and create an environment where our fans, players, and staff feel proud to be part of the Red Devils family.
“Together, we will strive for success on and off the field, while staying true to the values that make Salford so unique.
“Chris (Irwin, CEO) will run the club and we’ll announce a new board of directors in due course. We have ambitious plans and we’ll be sharing that vision with you all shortly.”
