'Perfect timing' as Cummins steps up at Bulls (From Bradford Telegraph and Argus)

'Perfect timing' as Francis Cummins steps up at Bradford Bulls

6:30am Tuesday 18th September 2012 in Sport By Ross Heppenstall, Bradford Bulls Reporter

Omar Khan has described Francis Cummins’ appointment as “perfect timing” after he was unveiled as the new Bulls coach at Odsal yesterday.

The 35-year-old former Leeds winger and assistant coach was handed a three-year deal after being recommended to the club’s new owners by predecessor Mick Potter.

Khan told the Telegraph & Argus: “It’s perfect timing for Franny and I believe he can make a big difference.

“He’s hungry for success and is geared up to become a fully-fledged Super League coach. I’m confident he will deliver.”

Bradford restaurant boss Khan revealed how a conversation with Potter persuaded him that Cummins was the only man for the job.

Potter turned down the chance to extend his stay into a third year before recommending that Cummins take the reins.

“I sat down with Mick and we had a good natter,” explained Khan.

“Mick has a love for the club in his heart but he said ‘Omar, I’ve been burnt out. This is it, but I love you, I love the club and I’ll be watching over you guys’.

“He told me what his recommendation was and I agreed with him about Franny.

“I think he’s a great chap and I’ve always had high regards for him.

“He needed that promotion and I believe he deserves this job. I’m sure he’ll be a great choice.”

Khan said that Cummins would be given a free rein to pick his own backroom staff, adding: “It will be his choice who he wants to work with.

“Gerry and I will oversee things but Franny will have the freedom to choose a team.”

Khan admitted that Craig Kopczak is likely to have played his last game for the club after terminating his contract with the Bulls.

A legal battle and an RFL investigation are set to follow, and Khan, who will oversee the administrative structure of the club this week, added: “I don’t have any issues with the chap – I wish him all the best.

“But I think the players have fallen out with him. I’ve met all the players and will now get to know each and every one of them individually.

“But the feedback I got was that the players weren’t happy with him either. They were upset about how it happened.”