Head coach McRae leaves Salford

McRae’s last match in charge was the 32-6 victory over Wakefield

Salford City Reds have announced head coach Shaun McRae has left the club.

The 51-year-old had been on leave due to medical advice since March and had been expected to leave his role at the end of the Super League season.

However, the Reds and McRae have reached an agreement for the Australian to depart 12 games into the season with Phil Veivers taking caretaker charge.

Reds chief David Tarry said: “Shaun has a fantastic record in terms of coaching and we thank him for his efforts.”

Salford endured a wretched Easter weekend, losing 60-0 at home to Warrington on Good Friday and then 52-22 at Huddersfield the following Tuesday.

“The club feel it is time for a change and we need to move on, and there is no doubt now that as we head into the new stadium, the head coach’s job at Salford is one of the most attractive available in the game at this time,” added Tarry.

McRae added: “This mutual agreement allows both the club and myself to move on in a fresh direction, the past four years with the Reds have taken my career as a head coach to the 450-game landmark.

“The Salford experience has included a clean sweep of trophies during one season in the National League and the challenges of competing in the elite Super League, highlighted by the development of a crop of young players.

“My thanks go to Reds chairman John Wilkinson and the directors, players, back-room and office staff, sponsors and, of course, the faithful fans, coupled with best wishes for a new era in a new home.”

The Reds take on Harlequins in London on Saturday looking to improve on their current position of 12th.