Meyer stands down - Sport in brief - Evening Standard
       

Meyer stands down

Heyneke Meyer has resigned as head coach of Leicester, the Guinness Premiership club confirmed on Wednesday afternoon.

The South African returned to his homeland last month on compassionate grounds after his both his wife's parents were taken seriously ill.

Richard Cockerill will continue to to take charge of the Tigers team, with support from Matt O'Connor and Paul Burke.

Meyer was given as much time as possible to make a final decision over his future with the club, following a promising start to his career at Welford Road.

But, after staying in touch with the club throughout his unexpected exile, the 41-year-old concluded he could not commit to his position.

"This has been a very difficult decision for me to make, in difficult circumstances, but I hope everyone can understand my reasons," he said.

"Leicester Tigers is a very special rugby club and I accepted the job there because I felt it was equipped to go on to greater success.

"I enjoyed my time living and working in England. The board, the staff, (captain) Martin Corry and the players, and the supporters have been fantastic towards me and my family during my time at Leicester and also during the time I have spent back in South Africa.

"I would like to thank them all for their support and wish everyone at Welford Road all the very best. I am sure the club will enjoy great success in the future."

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