Leon Holden named London Wasps director of rugby

Holden spent four years as a Wasps coach from 2005

London Wasps have appointed Leon Holden as director of rugby until the end of the season.

The New Zealander, 40, is a former forwards coach at Wasps but left two years ago to return home.

He was part of Ian McGeechan's coaching staff that won the 2007 Heineken Cup and 2008 Premiership title.

Previous director of rugby Tony Hanks left the club by mutual consent last week after a disappointing run that saw them win just once in six games.

Chairman Chris Thomas said: "At this point of the season, it was vital that we selected the right person to support [head coach] Shaun Edwards and the technical staff to oversee the squad's remaining involvement in the Aviva Premiership and Amlin Challenge Cup.

"It is an added bonus that Leon is well respected by the players and staff. We have been through a quick but vigorous selection process and we are delighted that Leon has accepted and will re-join the club."

Holden initially joined Wasps as a set-piece coach in 2005 after spells working in New Zealand and Japan.

The former second row went on to replace Craig Dowd as forwards coach at Adams Park in early 2008 before quitting a year later.