Newcastle Falcons have terminated the contract of rugby director Steve Bates with immediate effect.
Rugby director shown the door after internal review
Newcastle Falcons have terminated the contract of rugby director Steve Bates with immediate effect.
The Falcons currently sit 10th in the Guinness Premiership table, nine points above already-relegated Worcester, having won just six of their 21 league games this term.
The club decided to end Bates' stint in charge following an internal review.
He rejoined Newcastle as rugby director in 2007, having originally left Kingston Park four years earlier following a successful spell as head coach under Rob Andrew's Premiership title-winning regime.
Bates, 46, said: "I am disappointed at the outcome of this review, but I am proud of what has been achieved this season in a very competitive environment.
"I would like to thank the players and all of the back-up staff for their support and effort.
"I would also like to thank my wife and family for their fantastic support, loyalty and encouragement during this time."
Falcons chairman Dave Thompson added: "We would all like to express our thanks to Steve for his contribution during his time as director of rugby, and wish him every success in the future."
Newcastle are due to conclude their season at home to Wasps on Saturday.
