It's now official, Dai Young is finished at Wasps

Dai Young has left his post as Wasps director of rugby following discussions with the club over the past week.

He had been relieved of his duties last Tuesday ahead of the weekend Gallagher Premiership derby with midlands rivals Leicester – but hadn’t officially left the club. “Director of rugby Dai Young will be stepping back from first-team duties for an interim period," read a statement at the time.

Now, though, his departure has been confirmed. Wasps chairman Derek Richardson said: “I’d like to place my sincere thanks on record to Dai for his hard work and support over the years.

“He has done a tremendous job and, in particular, I’d like to thank him for his advice and help when I first became involved with the Club, and also his support for the move to Coventry in 2014. We have enjoyed some very special moments and they will always be remembered fondly.

“I’d like to wish Dai all the best in his future endeavours. He will always be considered a Wasps legend and will always be welcome at The Ricoh.”

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After almost nine seasons in charge, Young, who was last week linked with a possible switch to the Ospreys, told Wasps he felt he had taken the club as far as he could and now was the right time for a new voice to take them forward.

Young said: “I am extremely proud of my record during my time at Wasps and was extremely honoured to receive the director of rugby of the season award in 2017. It was proper recognition of all we had achieved as a squad leading up to that season.

“I am very proud of the part I played in developing players who have gone on to play for their countries, like club captain Joe Launchbury. It will be tough to leave a club and group of people that has meant so much to me over the past decade, but I feel this is the right time for both the Club and for myself.

“I would like to thank all the players, past and present, and the staff I have worked with, especially my heads of department who have become like family.

“I would also like to thank the Wasps fans who have been unbelievable in their support of me and the club, particularly during the tougher times. Their loyalty and support have meant a great deal to all of us and has made my journey even more special.

“It has been a fantastic experience for myself and my family. My wife April and I look forward to following Wasps in the future and supporting Thomas as proud parents from the stands. Wasps have been a huge part of my life and I wish everyone at the club the best of luck for the future.”

As confirmed last week, Lee Blackett has stepped up from attack and backs coach to become interim head coach, supported by Ian Costello (defence coach), Andy Titterrell (forwards coach), Matt Everard (transition coach) and Martin Gleeson (assistant attack coach).

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