• Aviva Premiership

Jones heads for Sale exit

Kingsley Jones will leave Sale Sharks © Getty Images

Enlarge

Related Links

• News: Diamond to return to Sale
  
• News: Hodgson slams Brewer for Sale upheaval
  
• News: Hodgson confirms Sharks departure
  

Director of rugby Kingsley Jones has confirmed that he will leave Sale Sharks at the end of January.

The former Wales skipper has been at Edgeley Park for almost seven years, with a spell as head coach preceding his promotion to director of rugby. During that time the Sharks won both the Premiership and European Challenge Cup.

Jones' exit is the latest in a number of backroom changes at the club. Head coach Mike Brewer was sacked two days before Christmas, leading to the return of former club captain Pete Anglesea in the role. It was also confirmed that current Russia coach Steve Diamond would make a comeback as executive director of sport.

"I have had a very fulfilling and rewarding time at the club, and it is now right for me to move on," Jones said. "While I have enjoyed my off-field role this season, my real passion lies with coaching. I will be looking to get back into a role with more hands-on coaching in the near future.

"I leave on very good terms with the club and would like to thank the owners Brian Kennedy and Ian Blackhurst for giving me such a great opportunity."

Early reports have linked Jones with a return to Wales, although there is also the possibility of a high-profile reunion with former Sharks boss Philippe Saint-Andre at Top 14 big-spenders Toulon.

Sale owner Brian Kennedy added: "Kingsley has been a wonderful servant to the club over the years. It is down to Kingsley and Philippe Saint-Andre that they took on a group of players and turned them into Premiership champions.

"We will always be grateful for the loyalty, passion, experience and skills that Kingsley brought to this club. However, we recognise and respect his desire to get back into coaching and realise that for him to do this effectively, then now is the best time to depart."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.