It’s game over for Koukash

MARWAN KOUKASH is to relinquish control of Salford after five controversial and largely unsuccessful years in charge.

The Palestinian refugee turned engineering graduate, businessman and racehorse owner saved the club from financial ruin when he took over in January 2013.

But there have been endless sagas on and off the field including legal battles with former players and coaches over unpaid wages, points deductions for salarycap breaches, and Koukash, above, even threatening to bring down the RFL.

The Red Devils narrowly survived relegation last season, but have enjoyed a much better campaign this year and reached the Challenge Cup semi-finals. Yet attendances at the AJ Bell Stadium have remained alarmingly low and Koukash will now hand over control to a community trust in order to make the club “self-sufficient”.

Koukash, 58, said: “I will appoint a board of trustees to include local businessmen and a representative of the fans to be elected by the season-ticket holders.

“During my time running the club I have faced many challenges which I have met head on and I, along with my family, have had many great times, creating friendships and memories that will stay with us.

“I am confident the new structure will see the club continue to make progress on and off the pitch.”