McDermott fears for Quins future

Outgoing Harlequins coach Brian McDermott has expressed his fears for the future of the London-based club.

McDermott's team are just two points off the bottom of the Engage Super League with two games remaining. Crowds for matches at the Twickenham Stoop have also been disappointing and the situation has once again raised question marks over the London club's viability ahead of next year's renewal of Super League licences.

McDermott, who announced this week he is to leave at the end of the season to take up a role as assistant coach at Leeds, told Sky Sports 'Boots n All' programme: "There are some harsh facts that bills need to be paid."

Harlequins RL are currently run by majority shareholder David Hughes, who took over as chairman for a second spell when Keith Hogg resigned last year.

And McDermott added: "I have met some fellows of integrity in my time and I have met some fellows whom I rate as men. David Hughes is probably up there, he is top drawer.

"Without qualm and without fuss he has divvied up an incredible amount of money, almost soccer-style money, to keep this club afloat.

"In the last couple of years certain things have happened which have meant he has had to divvy a little bit more up.

"It has been tough on him and he can't continue to do that, and nor should he.

"That's why I fear for the club. I do have a concern and I hope the people who are making the decisions at the top end make some correct decisions."

Harlequins' problems paradoxically come at a time when participation in rugby league at all levels is at a record high across London.