• Professional clubs want to oust RFL chair Simon Johnson
• Governing body says any such move would breach rules

The Rugby Football League has warned clubs that an attempt to sideline the sport’s ­governing body and replace its chair could have ­“catastrophic financial ­consequences” after taking legal advice to stave off a planned revolt.

Rugby league’s professional clubs will assemble in March to ­consider a proposal put forward by the Super League club Leigh ­Leopards and Championship side Batley ­Bulldogs, which calls for the immediate removal of Simon Johnson, after a purported loss of confidence in the direction of the governing body.