Can reds survive in Super League?

SS: Definitely. As a team we are still adapting to playing at a higher level but everything within the club is structured towards staying up and progressing.

Having said that, we would not have survived but for what the new stadium at Barton can offer us.

What is the state of play with the Barton project and where is it up to?

SS: We believe the scheme could be given the go-ahead in the next six weeks and the sooner the better because it opens so many doors for us and helps us to progress accordingly.

Just how important is this grand scheme?

SS: It is vitally important. It means we would have £1.8m to spend simply on players. This money would be in addition to any Super League funding coming our way. Our stature would instantly increase.

Such finance obviously backs up the club's bold claim to eventually being the biggest force in British Rugby League - do you agree?

SS: Precisely. Many companies have already signed up and agreed contracts to pump their money into Salford Reds as soon as the stadium scheme is given the go-ahead.

They would be involved from day one and this is why I again stress why we need to get going with the development straight away.

The wait for the approval must be frustrating for both the club and its loyal supporters.

SS: Very much so, because in 12 months everything would be completed and a total transformation would be seen.

The stadium would be among the best in the UK. It is ideally located and would provide great line of sight in helping entice even more people to become part of the Salford set-up.

Can Reds really challenge the elite of Super League such as Bradford, Leeds, Wigan and St Helens?

SS: We know we can and what we have planned provides us with the perfect opportunity.

We already have a good exciting team but if the ground scheme had been given the go-ahead by now money would already be available to bring in two or three top quality signings - this is what is needed and it should happen fairly soon all being well.

Just who is behind such ambition within the Reds camp?

SS: Everyone from chairman John Wilkinson down.

This scheme and what we have planned for the future is a chance in a lifetime, not only for the Salford club but for the local community as a whole.

The local council are a very big player in what is planned and the sooner they give the go-ahead for the project the quicker dreams can turn to reality for everyone concerned.

What can be created can leave a lasting impression on this great, proud city.

Is it true to say that the increased revenue and stature will lead to a strong development programme being set up at grass roots level within Salford?

SS: Of course it will and this is where success stems from. We are currently taking on academy teams who are fielding full-time players even at this level. We can't afford to do this just yet but we will and when we do the game's future stars will become part of a thriving and ambitious Salford.

What is your view of head coach Karl Harrison?

SS: He is a tremendously talented coach. Karl has transformed the entire club and we know we have one of the best coaches in the game. He is the man who can take this club forward onto the next phase. We intend to build on the good that came from last season.

Can Salford's grand dream become reality - this is what the fans are asking?

SS: Yes, it can. Because careful planning has gone in to all aspects of the project. Once the Barton development is given the go-ahead we will see Salford take off both on and off the field.

This is why we are all counting the days down to when we are told that approval has been granted. The council are backing the scheme to the hilt - it is so important and it is the way forward for Salford.

Finally, what is the big goal for this season?

SS: I've said all along that we have the ability to surprise teams. We'll play a good brand of rugby and we will look to consolidate and then progress accordingly as we look to what Barton can offer us. The spirit in the camp is superb. I have never known better spirit among a set of players. They will be no pushover and they are totally focused and committed on giving 100 per cent every time they take the field. You can take it from me the pride is back in Salford and we are heading in the right direction. Tweet