‘ Tomkins code switch would be devastating’

SALFORD owner Marwan Koukash has warned that losing Sam Tomkins to rugby union would be “another devastating blow” to the 13- man code.

Tomkins is reportedly homesick at New Zealand Warriors and Wigan coach Shaun Wane has said he would welcome the England full- back’s return with open arms.

Big- spending Koukash has tried and failed to sign Tomkins in the past and expects him to rejoin Wigan if he does head back to the Super League.

But Tomkins has often spoken of his desire to play rugby union at some point in his career, as his elder brother Joel did for Saracens and England before returning to Wigan last year.

Koukash said: “If Sam is ready to leave the Warriors at the end of the season, then I sincerely hope he stays in rugby league. I’d hate to see a world- class player of his stature ending up in union.

“This must not happen. After losing Sam Burgess, it would be another devastating blow for our game to lose Tomkins too.

“We still don’t really know what is happening but if Sam becomes available, I would be very happy to see him go TOMKINS: Could return to England back to Wigan. I was very keen to sign Sam when I fi rst arrived at Salford and did everything in my power to get him. I’ll be watching developments with interest but that is as far as it goes this time.”

Koukash plans to press ahead with his ambitious bid to buy an NRL club in Australia and has targeted the Gold Coast Titans. He said: “When the Titans become available, I will bid for them and, as a family, we are considering settling in Australia. I’d be happy for the fans to eventually take charge of a strong Salford. This is my long- term plan.”