The new Super League season may only be five rounds old, but Bobbie Goulding has already experienced enough controversy to make the 2001 Grand National pale in comparison.

There are two factors that pointed to Goulding having an uncertain future at Salford.

The first was the poor start by the club that most people have tipped to take the wooden spoon at the end of the season.

But how quickly times change.

Goulding produced probably his most impressive display for two years against Warrington on Good Friday.

And he followed it up with another virtuoso effort in the win at Halifax on Easter Monday.

Following his Easter excellence Goulding has spoken about the recent controversy, claiming that everything has been blown out of proportion.

"There was nothing involved whatsoever when I was on the bench to play Wakefield," he said.

"I had an injury and the coach didn't want to risk me.

"If I had said I was happy not starting that game everyone would have gone mad, so I was in a no-win situation.

"I was desperate to play and I can't believe that people would read so much into it."

Goulding was delighted with his performance against Warrington, whose travelling fans did their best to unsettle him.

"Every time we play against Warrington the fans try to get at me, but it's nice to be able to give a little bit back by playing well."

Enigma

Goulding is now confident that everything is not only on the up for himself, but also for his team.

"We've hopefully turned the corner now after a bad start, and it's important we maintain that form against Castleford this Sunday," he said.

One little-known piece of information is that Goulding is also the only kicker in Super League who still has a 100% record this season.

That is a fact that will not be lost on opposing supporters when he eventually misses.

And as for the future of this rugby league enigma, the former Great Britain international is still keen to play on well into the future.

"I'm only 30 and feel that I have still have some good years in front of me, whether it is in England or abroad," he said.