ASSISTANT coach Grant Doorey and forward Matt Symons have become the latest names to leave London Irish.
Doorey’s departure seemed inevitable following the resignation of Tom Coventry last week with confirmation coming from the club this afternoon.
Defensive coach Doorey, who joined with Coventry in 2015, leaves with immediate effect but fellow assistant coach Clark Laidlaw’s future remains unclear.
“The harsh reality of relegation is that we have to adjust our resources to those that can be sustained in the Championship,” said chief executive Bob Casey.
“Grant contributed to our efforts as we endeavoured to retain our Premiership status and we’re grateful to him for that.
“On behalf of the board and all at the club, we wish him and his family well for the future.”
Commenting on leaving, Doorey said: “I hope that the many good people who remain at London Irish can deliver success at the club.
“This most recent restructuring should deliver a change in terms of on-field results and an alignment to ensure strategic direction and leadership across the business.”
Meanwhile, Symons has opted against an extension to his contract with the Exiles, instead signing a deal with Premiership outfit Wasps.
Second-row forward Symons, 26, joined Irish from Super Rugby side Waikato Chiefs last summer and made 23 appearances as the club were relegated.
Head of rugby operations Glenn Delaney, said: “We are disappointed that Matt has decided to leave the club and pursue other playing opportunities.
“He has been a consistent performer for us and we wish him well for the future.”
The news comes a day after Irish announced a new signing, snapping up forward George Robson from French Top 14 side Oyonnax.
Robson, 30, is set to take Symons’ spot in the side having previously spent a long spell in England at Harlequins, making over 200 appearances.
