FRANCIS Cummins has launched legal proceedings for wrongful dismissal against the Bulls following his sacking three months ago.

The former Bradford coach was relieved of his duties on June 16 – the day after a thumping defeat at Salford Red Devils.

Cummins had expected to be paid the remainder of the three-year contract he signed following his appointment in September 2012.

But no financial settlement could be reached with the Bulls and the case is now set to go to court.

Richard Cramer of Leeds-based Front Row Legal, who is representing Cummins, told the T&A: "Francis was expecting the club to honour their obligation to pay through to the end of his contract.

"Bradford have not been able to accommodate a settlement, despite attempts to do so.

"For this reason, and with a heavy heart, Francis has now issued proceedings in the Leeds High Court claiming damages for wrongful dismissal."

Cramer said Cummins was highly reluctant to take legal action against the club he joined as Mick Potter's assistant in October 2010.

Cummins worked for three months without pay after being made redundant when the club entered administration in June 2012.

When Potter returned home to Australia at the end of that tumultuous campaign, 37-year-old Cummins was appointed as head coach.

Cramer said: "Francis has a strong affinity to the club and he worked there during a very turbulent time in the Bulls' history.

"Francis is a family man and since leaving Bradford, he has not been able to secure work, so is facing a substantial financial loss."

The Bulls declined to comment yesterday and Cramer added: "We are aware that Bradford believe there was an early-termination clause but that was not what was agreed.

"Very specifically, the three-year deal was agreed with the previous incumbent board of Gerry Sutcliffe and Omar Khan.

"The fact the club's ownership has since changed hands is completely irrelevant – the contract still continues through."

The case is expected to be heard early next year.