Ian Watson set for Huddersfield Giants after quitting Super League rivals Salford Red Devils

HUDDERSFIELD Giants last night emerged as the likely destination for Ian Watson after Salford Red Devils announced the surprise departure of their highly-rated head coach.
By Dave Craven
Published 9th Nov 2020, 23:23 BST
Updated 9th Nov 2020, 23:44 BST
Former Salford head coach Ian Watson. Picture: Allan McKenzie/SWpix.comFormer Salford head coach Ian Watson. Picture: Allan McKenzie/SWpix.com
Former Salford head coach Ian Watson. Picture: Allan McKenzie/SWpix.com

Salford said they were “surprised and disappointed” by Watson’s actions and he left with immediate effect after being approached by a rival Super League club.

It was only two weeks ago that he rejected the chance to join Hull FC, saying he preferred to see out his contract with Salford which ran until the end of 2022.

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However, Huddersfield - who are in the market for a new head coach following the exit of Australian Simon Woolford in September - are understood to have made their own more preferable move.

Although the West Yorkshire club declined to comment last night, it is understood they are in advanced talks to make the 44-year-old their new chief.

Watson is seen as one of Super League’s most talented coaches after transforming Salford on a shoestring budget, taking them to their maiden Grand Final last year and also a first Challenge Cup final since 1969 when they played against Leeds Rhinos at Wembley in August.

The former Halifax and Wales scrum-half had joined from Swinton Lions in 2014, initially as assistant coach,

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A statement from Salford said: “The club were surprised and disappointed by Watson’s decision yesterday, following his previous statements of intent for the coming season, but understand his desire to continue his development through the experience of a new environment.

Ian Watson has left Salford City Reds and is expected to move to Huddersfield Giants. Picture by Alex Whitehead/SWpix.comIan Watson has left Salford City Reds and is expected to move to Huddersfield Giants. Picture by Alex Whitehead/SWpix.com
Ian Watson has left Salford City Reds and is expected to move to Huddersfield Giants. Picture by Alex Whitehead/SWpix.com

“Everyone at Salford Red Devils would like to thank Watson for his contribution to the club throughout his tenure and wish him all the best in his new role.

“The club has now started the recruitment process for a new head coach.”

Meanwhile, Huddersfield yesterday announced the capture of Toronto Wolfpack hooker James Cunningham, 26, on a two-year deal.

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The England Knights international, who started out at hometown Hull, excelled for London Broncos in Super League last season.

Huddersfield Giants head coach, Simon Woolford. Picture: Tony Johnson.Huddersfield Giants head coach, Simon Woolford. Picture: Tony Johnson.
Huddersfield Giants head coach, Simon Woolford. Picture: Tony Johnson.

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Related topics:SalfordIan WatsonSalford Red DevilsSuper LeagueHuddersfieldHuddersfield GiantsHull FCWest Yorkshire

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