Former Australia international Matt O’Connor is to return to Leicester Tigers in the role of head coach, replacing Aaron Mauger.
Mauger, a former New Zealand back, will leave the role following Saturday’s Premiership game against Northampton.
Leicester wing Telusa Veainu expressed his surprise, tweeting: “With 5 games to go, really?? We don’t know how good we’ve got it! #biggerpicture #gutted.”
PLAYER & FAN REACTION
Aaron Mauger’s a likeable, intelligent rugby thinker. Excited to see his next steps. Before that, he’ll get a big performance against Saints
— Charlie Morgan (@CharlieFelix) March 20, 2017
Never enjoyed my rugby more than under Mauger, great coach and great person. Any team would be lucky to have him.
— Lachlan McCaffrey (@LockyMcCaffrey) March 20, 2017
Aaron Mauger: comes into a heaping mess at Tigers, wins a trophy, rebuilds a broken squad; then let go. @LeicesterTigers, who are you now?
— MΔTTJENNER (@mattjenner94) March 20, 2017
Shocked by the @LeicesterTigers news tonight that Aaron Mauger is leaving after this weeks game. Matt O’Connor is a top coach coming back in
— Andy Goode (@AndyGoode10) March 20, 2017
Regular day in the life of the Tigers. Club wins a trophy on Sunday. Club reveal boss man leaving on Monday. Mauger upheaval.
— Alastair Eykyn (@alastaireykyn) March 20, 2017
Matt O’Connor returning to Leicester as head coach. Starts in April. Aaron Mauger leaving after Saturday’s game against Northampton.
— Nick Mullins (@andNickMullins) March 20, 2017