Tuesday 13 January 2015 20:43, UK
London Irish director of rugby Brian Smith has vacated his role with immediate effect.
Smith was set to leave the club at the end of the season but his departure has been brought forward for 'family reasons' and he will now return to Australia.
The former England attack coach was in his second spell with the Exiles, but the club has continued to struggle since his return in 2012 and their 28-26 win over Exeter on Sunday was only their fourth of the season.
Irish are 11th in the Aviva Premiership table as Smith departs, with only winless London Welsh below them, and Sky sources understand Chiefs and Samoa assistant Tom Coventry set to take over after his World Cup commitments later this year. Glenn Delaney will be in charge until the end of the season.
Smith said: “My family has to be my priority right now which is why I have asked to be released from my contract early.
"I have thoroughly enjoyed my 10-year association with London Irish and will look back on my time with fond memories.”
Chairman David Fitzgerald said: “London Irish is grateful to Brian Smith for the contribution he has made to the club. He led us to the greatest experience we’ve had to date of European rugby and introduced some great players to the club.
“We believe that, following Sunday’s results at Madejski Stadium and Kingston Park, our Premiership status for next season is more or less secure and allows us to focus on preparing for next season.
“All involved with London Irish, especially the new owners, would like to personally thank Brian for his considerable contribution over the last two-and-a-half years and wish him and his family well for the future.”
