Leicester head coach McKellar leaves by mutual consent

Head coach Dan McKellar has left Leicester Tigers by mutual consent after only one season in charge of the Premiership club.

The 47-year-old former ACT Brumbies boss stepped down as Australia forwards coach to take the role, joining on a "long-term deal" as the permanent replacement for Steve Borthwick following his appointment as England coach.

However, the Tigers endured a disappointing season, finishing eighth in the Premiership, 11 points off a play-off spot.

They were also beaten by Leinster in the last 16 of the Investec Champions Cup and lost the Premiership Cup final to Gloucester.

In a statement, Leicester said McKellar's departure had been agreed "following extensive discussions regarding the club's future direction".

The club added that they had begun their search for a new head coach, with pre-season for players not on international duty set to start on 1 July.

Former Australia and Argentina head coach Michael Cheika was reported by The Telegraph, external as being among the candidates for the role.