How Super League may work should stricken Salford go under this season

SALFORD’S chief executive Chris Irwin has left his role as rugby league chiefs may help them limp through this season if their cash crisis deepens.

But work on operating with 11 teams should they go under has also been done, including introducing a points percentage table.

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Administration or even a winding up order looms large over the Red Devils after a takeover by Sire Kailahi and Curtiz Brown turned into a disaster - it is believed they still think they can get it done in June.

HMRC is set to decide its course of action over unpaid bills while the Rugby Football League is owed £500,000 with payday loan firms wanting money back.

Its latest drama has seen Irwin, the man they brought in to turn the club into a powerhouse, depart, with players and staff being told yesterday he had ‘resigned.’

A short statement said: "We can confirm Chris Irwin’s departure as CEO from Salford Red Devils, after accepting his resignation.

"We thank him for his efforts. The journey continues – Reds Rise Together."

That comes as SunSport understands tentative talks have been held about the governing body or Rugby League Commercial stepping in to make sure they at least complete the season - if the other clubs agree.

That would prevent a sporting mess as Salford going bust would mean some sides will play 25 matches and others 24, meaning a percentage table - like the one employed in 2020 and 2021 to cope with Covid-19 enforced postponements – may be brought in.

SunSport believes a more natural Super League season with 11 teams had been devised until round six but at 10 matches in, the point of that being able to be employed has passed.

It would also mean awkward conversations with broadcaster Sky, who may demand some of their broadcast deal back because of fewer fixtures, would be put off.

Bosses are said to be holding ‘multiple daily conversations’ with Salford, who are still interesting other potential owners.

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Kailahi and Brown have so far not put in the funding they talked about at the beginning of the season and six players have left after they waited for their wages in February and March, with April’s just being paid on time following a scramble.

And with no sign of attitudes changing, a repeat is possible in May.

Administration, which would take any decision to sell the club out of their hands, would mean Salford are automatically relegated for next season under IMG’s grading scheme.

But liquidation cannot be ruled out, unless the owners put their money in or another person takes them on.