McDermott sacked as Leeds Rhinos coach

It has been announced that Brian McDermott has been sacked as Leeds Rhinos coach.

Winning four Grand Finals, two Challenge Cups, a League Leaders Shield and a World Club Challenge, McDermott was the longest-serving coach in Super League but his time at Emerald Headingley has come to an end.

Leeds have been on a terrible run of form, losing their last seven league matches and edging closer to the bottom four.

Discussing McDermott’s departure, Gary Hetherington said: “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,”

“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.

“Brian is a man of the utmost integrity and passion for Rugby League. He has so much to offer the sport and I have no doubt he will go on to achieve more success in the future. Leeds Rhinos will be forever indebted to his contribution.”