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.”
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