London Irish are to part company with director of rugby, Brian Smith, with immediate effect.

The former England attack coach, who came back to London Irish following the fall-out from Martin Johnson’s 2011 World Cup campaign, was expected to hold the reins at the Exiles until the end of the season when he is to return to his native Australia.

However, London Irish have decided that it needs to make plans for next season and so Smith will be asked to clear his desk.

Former London Irish captain and lock, Bob Casey, who played under Smith a decade ago, has been working behind the scenes on recruitment and it is believed that he will take over the essential running of playing matters.

Casey, 36, retired from playing in 2012 after 10 years at the club during which time he won seven caps for Ireland.

Former Ireland coach, Declan Kidney, has been linked with a move to the club as has All Blacks prop, Ben Franks, after this year’s Rugby World Cup. London Irish are under new ownership and have plans to boost the playing side of affairs.

London Irish have struggled to deliver on the playing front in recent years after success a decade ago. They have seen a succession of their talented players, such as Bath duo, centre, Jonathan Joseph, and wing, Anthony Watson, as well as Harlequins wing, Marland Yarde, leave the club.

Smith’s last memory was to see fly-half, Shane Geraghty, secure only London Irish’s second home win of the season with a drop goal in added time to beat Exeter 28-26 last Sunday at the Madejski Stadium.

PA Media