Koukash and Salford have saved rugby league - Murphy

Rugby League was in danger of self-destructing before Marwan Koukash’s arrival at Salford, according to Alex Murphy.

The former Great Britain coach also believes that a big season for the Red Devils is crucial in helping the sport survive in the face of increasing competition from rugby union.

And he admits he is envious of Salford boss Brian Noble, whose side have won their opening two Super League games, following the arrival of a host of big-name players in the summer.

“Marwan Koukash is doing everything he can to raise the profile of rugby league and good on him. He has my full backing and admiration,” said Murphy, who spent two years in charge of Salford at the end of the 1970s.

“He sees that rugby union clubs are now being run as corporate businesses and rugby league needs greatly increased sponsorships.

“This only comes from having a higher profile and, thanks to Koukash, people are again talking about our game.

“The sport’s image and profile still needs to be far higher though.

“How Salford go this year is very important to rugby league. They have revived interest in the game and have a big part to play in helping save the sport. They deserve success for their enterprise.

“Marwan Koukash has been great for our game, it was crying out for a man with his ideas.

“What a pity more leaders and bosses don’t have his drive and fire.

“To be a coach and to work with him must be an absolute dream. I wish I could turn the clock back and be in Brian Noble’s position.

Murphy was dubbed ‘Mr Motormouth’ in his heyday and is happy to now see the Salford owner carrying the mantle.

”Marwan may well have already upset a few people and ruffled quite a few feathers but so what? Our game needs strong characters with the sport’s best interests at heart,” he said.

“Koukash is a winner and what’s wrong with him claiming that Salford are going to win everything?

“It’s his money he’s spending and he is therefore entitled to have his say.”

Salford’s unbeaten start to the season will be tested on Thursday when St Helens visit the AJ Bell Stadium. But Murphy, who also coached the Saints, believe they are in for a tough time.

”No visiting team will get an easy ride at Salford this season,” he said. “Saints will be a big test for them but Salford are strong.”

Article source: http://www.irishtimes.com/sport/rugby/irfu-hit-by-26m-shortfall-in-expected-earnings-from-five-and-10-year-tickets-1.1469464

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Koukash and Salford have saved rugby league - Murphy