Leeds Rhinos have reacted to a run of seven successive Super League defeats by sacking head coach Brian McDermott.
McDermott was the longest serving coach in the competition, winning four titles, two Challenge Cups and also the World Club Challenge since his appointment in October 2011.
Advertisement
The Rhinos won last season's Grand Final at Old Trafford but the defending champions have struggled for form in 2018, with a 46-8 defeat to Wigan Warriors leaving them languishing in eighth place.
While injury issues have hampered their title defence, Leeds opted to make a change with four games remaining in the regular season.
Rhinos chief executive Gary Hetherington admitted it was a tough decision to part ways with McDermott - who previously worked as an assistant to former coach Tony Smith at Headingley - but insisted the club had made the "right call", considering their predicament.
"It is always disappointing to announce the departure of someone who has contributed so much to our club's success and Brian McDermott has certainly done that," Hetherington said in a statement.
"The club's most successful coach has also helped to forge a rugby operation with toughness, resilience and a strong desire to succeed, which his successor will inherit. That search will now begin in earnest.
"Eight years is a long time for any head coach at the same club and we have enjoyed much success and endured some difficult times along the way when tough decisions had to be made.
"We have always come through strongly but I do believe our present predicament requires change and that this is the right call for the club."
Despite their difficulties in Super League, McDermott steered Leeds to the last four of the Challenge Cup this year.
However, the 48-year-old will not be in charge when they face Warrington Wolves on August 5, having seen his successful period at the helm come to a disappointing end.
"I am extremely disappointed this has happened and obviously it is not a decision I agree with," McDermott said.
"I wish everyone at the club the best and my thoughts will be with the team on Sunday and through to the end of the season."
