 Mike Ruddock is now free to seek a new job in rugby |
Former Wales coach Mike Ruddock seems to have closed the door on taking legal action against the Welsh Rugby Union. In a joint statement issued with his former employer, Ruddock insisted they had parted company by "mutual consent".
"This chapter in my life is completed and I have no intention of making any further comment about it," he said.
Ruddock stepped down amid controversy in February but has only now come out of contract, meaning he is free to seek further employment.
After leading Wales to their first Grand Slam in 27 years and their first win over Australia in 18 seasons, the Gwent man will not be short of coaching offers.
"It has been a difficult time for Welsh rugby over the past few months and I am pleased to have come to a mutual agreement with the WRU that will now enable me to actively pursue new employment," Ruddock said.
Ruddock had announced his intention to leave the Wales job when his contract expired after the Six Nations, but wanted to stay in charge for the remainder of the tournament.
Instead, Ruddock was asked to leave with immediate effect and skills coach Scott Johnson was appointed as caretaker coach for Wales' last three Tests in the competition.
"I had hoped to have steered the Welsh side through to the end of the RBS Six Nations championship, but although naturally disappointed, I fully understand and accept the Union's position.
"I sincerely hope that this announcement will see an end to the constant speculation in the media," said Ruddock.
The roles of WRU chairman David Pickering and chief executive Steve Lewis in Ruddock's departure have become the subject of intense scrutiny.
The WRU's member clubs have pushed for a vote of no confidence in the board, with an Emergency General Meeting likely to take place in May.
But despite the latest statement, both Pickering and Lewis could still have their positions called into question.
Pickering said: "The constant speculation in the media regarding Mike's decision to stand down has undoubtedly damaged the reputation of the game in Wales.
"Restoring this reputation is now an immediate priority for the WRU and its member clubs.
"Having agreed to honour Mike's contract, we are now faced with the task of finding a suitable replacement for him as head coach.
"Just as Mike now wishes to look ahead, so too must the WRU look to the future. We will not be making any further statements regarding this issue."
The deadline for applications for the Wales head coach job passed on Friday, with people's favourite Gareth Jenkins revealing he has thrown his hat into the ring.
Jenkins was snubbed by the WRU when Ruddock was appointed two years ago and has said he is unlikely to be able to take the Wales job if Pickering and Lewis remain in situ.
Former Wales skipper Phil Davies, the director of rugby at Leeds Tykes, is also thought to have applied.
But the likes of ex-Italy coach John Kirwan, Canterbury Crusaders coach Robbie Deans and former Springbok coach Nick Mallett have all ruled themselves out.
MMIX
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