Parramatta's fourth salary cap breach in five years has finally given the NRL the opportunity to force governance reforms at a club that seems to be continually in turmoil.

While the Eels hierarchy strongly protested the NRL ultimatum that the club undertake an independent review of its governance and organisational capability, and implement the changes recommended or start next season on minus four competition points, they have been left with no alternative but to comply.

Loko in action for Parramatta Eels in 2013. Credit:Getty Images

Until now, the NRL has had no real influence over a club whose licensed operation made a $6.5 million profit from a turnover of $85 million last year but is otherwise regarded as a basket case in league circles.

Since making the 2009 grand final, Parramatta have finished last on three occasions and had four chief executives and four coaches as a club that should be one of the NRL's powerhouses has become weighed down by political infighting.