Salford strip Alker of captaincy

Salford City Reds have stripped long-serving skipper Malcolm Alker of the captaincy on the eve of the start of the Super League season.nnIt is understood that Alker is amongst a host of players who have been reprimanded by the club following a series of incidents during their pre-season training camp in Florida.nnSalford, who are due to take on Widnes Vikings in a friendly this evening, have released the following statement: “Due to his involvement in a number of minor incidents recently, long-standing skipper Mal Alker has had the captaincy of the club removed from him as part of the measures undertaken, other players will be dealt with appropriately.nn“After a recent internal incident came to light during the training camp in Jacksonville, a small number of Reds’ players have been found to have broken club rules and subsequently face internal disciplinary procedures.nn“Following a meeting of the board of directors, it has been determined that action may be taken against a small number of individuals, some after further internal investigations that are now underway. nn“The club has to act to instil a high level of professionalism in all players if it is to continue to progress.nn“The club would like to move forward and believe this action sends out a clear signal that any breaches will be pursued accordingly in order to protect the integrity of Salford City Reds, its partners and supporters.”nnIt is understood that Robbie Paul will replace Alker as the City Reds captain for 2009.