Burnham 'watching Salford situation closely'

Andy Burnham was previously president of the Rugby Football League

Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham has said he is "watching closely" at the situation at Salford Red Devils.

The beleaguered Super League club have had a season to forget, plagued with financial problems despite a takeover going through on the eve of the season.

Late wage payments and an upcoming winding-up petition, previously served over £500,000 owed to His Majesty's Revenue and Customs (HMRC), has overshadowed a dismal campaign which has included a mass player exodus and just two wins from 21 league games.

"I've been watching the situation very closely indeed. [Head coach] Paul Rowley is someone I know very well," Burnham told BBC Radio Manchester.

"I know how difficult it's been for him and all of the staff there at Salford. I can say I'm watching it closely.

"The question is, what can be done to change things? Obviously a consortium came in promising to clear the debts and put significant investment in. But that clearly hasn't happened."

Financial problems already plagued the club before a consortium, led by businessman Dario Berta, bought Salford on the eve of the season, with the Red Devils asking for an advance on 2025's funding late last year.

Despite the takeover, however, Salford have continued to struggle financially, while the club's attempt to purchase their Salford Community Stadium home was rejected by the council, who pulled out of negotiations in May.

Earlier this week the Red Devils' owners, who have not spoken to the media since their arrival, said that they remained "fully committed", pledged that the club would not close, and said that bridge funding would be "available and settled" by the end of August.

Burnham, formerly a president of the Rugby Football League as well as previously being honorary chairman of Leigh Leopards, said that he is prepared to work alongside Salford city mayor Paul Dennett to support the club if necessary.

"All I can say is that Paul and I will do every single thing we can to protect one of the most historic names, not just in rugby league but in sport as a whole," Burnham added.

"Our commitment is there. Obviously we can't just conjure up the funding, but from both of us, we massively recognise the role of rugby league in Salford and Greater Manchester and we can't let a proud name like this be left to rot.

"We will do everything we can and pull out all of the stops to support Salford as they go forward from here."