Boon was appointed head coach in 2006

Leicestershire have confirmed head coach Tim Boon is leaving the club.

Foxes chairman Neil Davidson has told BBC Radio Leicester that Boon is "currently negotiating his way out of his current contract".

The club have had a tough season on the pitch and despite a decent Championship campaign, they finished towards the bottom of the CB40 and Twenty20 groups.

But the real dramas have occurred off the pitch, with chief executive David Smith stepping down in June.

Boon and captain Matthew Hoggard have also led calls for Davidson to resign.

606: DEBATE This must be a big blow to the young players that have thrived under his tutelage Tommo

The behind-the-scenes turmoil first came into the public domain when Smith vacated his post, complaining about Davidson's interference in team matters.

Hoggard, Boon and other playing staff then all signed a letter demanding Davidson's resignation but he refused to step down.

Boon is now expected to take up a role as England Under-19 manager.

Davidson told BBC Radio Leicester: "Tim has a release clause in his contract which means if he is offered an international job he can negotiate his release.

"He has been offered the role of England Under-19 manager which is a role he is admirably suited for. It's a good appointment for Tim."

And, with Boon's departure confirmed, veteran wicketkeeper Paul Nixon is determined that Leicestershire give him the best possible send off by winning their last game of the season at Northants.

"We want to win this last game for Tim - it would be for him," said Nixon.

"The players are very sad about it [Boon leaving]. He has helped build everything we have got at the club and will miss him like a father figure. We wish him well."

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