Thomas met with Cov chairman Andrew Green yesterday to discuss Coventry's business plan and The Post understands the union are fully supportive of Green's attempts to rectify the club's financial plight.

To that end their status in National One is not up for negotiation although Thomas revealed the RFU still require convincing of the long-term viability.

"We are working through paperwork and discussions with Andrew Green," he said. "I would not want to say that we are sorted or we are not but I think it would be fair to say we are making progress and I am encouraged by the nature of that progress.

"The RFU are not looking to relegate them. We are not looking not to give our consent but we will only give it when we are absolutely satisfied as to the future viability of the club."

The union is cautiously optimistic about the prospects of that happening and in no way wants Coventry to go under.

But they are also mindful, as they try to turn the second tier into a fully professional division, that clubs must be run in an accountable manner and not run up several hundred thousand pounds worth of debt. n Worcester Warriors' 36-26 victory over Montpellier was marred by the death of a spectator who collapsed before kick-off at Sixways on Saturday.

It is understood the spectator suffered a heart attack while awaiting the start of the European Challenge Cup quarter-final tie.

The man, who has not been named, died at Worcestershire Royal Hospital.

Bookmark or share this story with:

• Digg
• Delicious
• Facebook
• Reddit
• Stumbleupon

Related Articles:

• Are Coventry Rugby Club already relegated?

SPORTNETWORK SPECIALS

• Think you know your sport? Click here to try the Sportnetwork Prize Quizzes