Super League: Salford Red Devils preview

Dr Marwan Koukash is about to find out if his financial largesse can help bring Salford back to life after a turbulent 2013. Coach Brian Noble's squad will be expected to challenge for honours.

Three keys to success

1-Cut to the Chase
No player had more try assists in 2013 in Super League than Chase. He now gets to work behind a big pack and with Tim Smith at his side to take off some of the pressure. It could be a big year for Rangi, if he wants it to be. 2-Attracting them in
Bringing in players is easy if you have the financial backing. Bringing in the fans, though, can be a little tougher. Dr Koukash wants the locals to get behind his product - but will they turn out to see Salford in action? 3-Staying healthy
Obvious for most teams, but the Red Devils can ill-afford to have some of their star names spending too much time in the treatment room. Age may be an issue, with their forwards in particular having plenty of miles on the clock.

PHIL CLARKE PREDICTS: 1st

It's possible they could finish top, provided coach Noble has extinguished the 'losing DNA' inside the club and helped them to find a collective belief then they have a chance of sharing his dream. He's been at the club for almost a year, and been in the game for over 30. If things 'click' for him at Salford, it'll be the best year of his life. PLAYER TO WATCH: Andrew Dixon was probably unnoticed and unappreciated last season. Using the OPTA rankings as a measure of a player's performance over the 2013 season, he came in as the 11th best forward in Super League, with Liam Farrell, Danny Kirmond, Jon Wilkin, Willie Manu and Brett Ferres the only back rowers above him.