Steve Diamond made over 350 appearances for Sale as a player and became the club's director of rugby in 2012; Sale sit fourth in the Premiership table with two wins from their opening three games; Paul Deacon to take charge of first team
Tuesday 8 December 2020 12:57, UK
Steve Diamond has stepped down as Sale Sharks' director of rugby due to personal reasons.
The 52-year-old said he had taken the decision "to step away from the business" after eight years in charge.
Paul Deacon will assume first-team responsibility as head coach.
Diamond made over 350 appearances for Sale and took the club to the verge of a Premiership play-off place last season, but their final game against Worcester was forfeited due to a coronavirus outbreak in the Sharks camp.
His shock departure comes just three games into the new Premiership season, and only four days before Sale's Champions Cup opener against Toulon.
"After 10 proud years with Sale Sharks, I have taken the decision to step away from the business," he said.
"I feel that this is the perfect moment to hand over to someone else, given the club is now stable and in a great position to compete at the highest level.
"We have acquired a world-class training facility, built an academy that is the envy of many Premiership clubs, and constructed a squad that can win tournaments and trophies at domestic and European level.
"I know Simon and Ged (Sale owners Simon Orange and Ged Mason) will continue with the progress we have made together, and I now look forward to taking some time out and planning my next challenge."
Sale added: "The club would like to thank Steve for his loyal service and commitment over the years.
"He leaves Sale Sharks in a strong position, having improved the club in many ways, and we wish him every success for the future.
"Paul Deacon will assume responsibility of the first team as head coach while we take stock and plan for the future."
Sale have started the current campaign with two wins and a narrow defeat at Newcastle, and are rated in many quarters as Exeter's main title challengers.
