Salford could appoint Noble and Smith

Salford owner Dr Marwan Koukash could appoint a dream pairing of Brian Smith and Brian Noble to fill their vacant head coach role.

Koukash has been public in his admiration of both candidates, who previously worked together at Bradford, with Noble also spending three weeks with Sydney Roosters last season when Smith was in charge there.

Former Great Britain coach Noble confirmed his interest in the post earlier in this week, and watched the City Reds’ 14-10 defeat to St Helens on Friday.

Time is running out to get someone in place ahead of the busy Easter schedule, with interim boss Alan Hunte looking increasingly likely to be taking in the fourth and fifth games of his reign.

Phil Veivers was sacked earlier this month following a heavy home defeat to London Broncos.