Rob Penney to leave Munster at the end of the season

Big news out of Munster today as it is announced that head coach Rob Penney and backs coach Simon Mannix will leave the province at the end of the season.

Just last month it was reported that Munster were anxious to hand coach Rob Penney a one-year extension on his contract. It was expected that he would agree to that as he had often spoke about a 'three-year plan' at Munster. But it seems the Kiwi will only complete 2/3rds of that plan as it was confirmed today he would be leaving the club at the end of the season. The move will be a shock to the rugby world, and especially those in Munster, who were sure he would stay at least one more year at the helm.

Head Coach Rob Penney & Backs Coach Simon Mannix will leave Munster at end of this season,full details to follow on http://t.co/bdXxkTr15I — Munster Rugby (@Munsterrugby) February 6, 2014

Simon Mannix, the backs coach, will also leave and there is speculation in some quarters that it was uncertainty over his position that may have made Penney make the decision to step down at the end of his current two-year deal. Munster have yet to release any comment bar the above tweet but as soon as they do we will bring it to you. Update: Munster have released a statement and here are the quotes from chief exec Garrett Fitzgerald and Penney himself: Munster Rugby Chief Executive Garrett Fitzgerald said, "When we reach the end of the season Rob will leave with our thanks and best wishes for the future. "Rob has been a very positive influence on this Munster squad and management and we are disappointed to see him go as we had hoped that he would fulfil his third season. In developing the squad he has highlighted the strength and depth of the Munster panel, with the competition for places as high as ever. "I would also like to take this opportunity to thank Simon for his work and commitment to the province, and we wish him all the best for the future. He has contributed to Munster's overall campaign and added great value to our coaching team. "We now need to focus on the remainder of this season and the opportunities ahead in both the Heineken Cup and the RaboDirect PRO12. We are confident both Simon and Rob will continue to strive for success and guide the squad through to the next stage." Head Coach Rob Penney said "I am disappointed to be leaving Munster as I have thoroughly enjoyed my time here. I have to take this opportunity presented to me and prioritise my family and personal circumstances at this time. We still have a few months to go and the goals remain the same - I want to achieve success with this great group of lads!" Full statement here