Leicester Tigers are in the midst of a coaching controversy after Michael Cheika, the soon-to-depart head coach, made the decision to remove assistant coach Matt Everard from his duties without consulting the club’s higher-ups.
Everard, who had been working as the team’s defence coach since joining in 2022 after Wasps’ financial collapse, was suddenly stripped of his role after the autumn internationals.
The Disagreement Behind the Dismissal
It’s understood that Cheika and Everard clashed over the defensive systems and strategies for the team, leading to a breakdown in their working relationship.
Following a series of poor results after their disagreement, Cheika made the decision last month to tell Everard not to return to his duties at the club.
Everard was told to stay away from Welford Road the morning of Leicester’s Premiership Cup match against Northampton and has not returned to the club since, despite still being under contract.
Leicester’s Poor Results and Internal Friction
Leicester Tigers have faced some challenging moments on the pitch recently.
A crushing 80-point defeat to Toulouse in the Champions Cup in January, the heaviest loss in the club’s history in that competition, and a 54-24 loss to Bristol at home before Christmas, highlighted the team’s defensive struggles.
These results, combined with the internal turmoil, have created significant tension within the club.
Cheika’s decision to remove Everard was made without the approval of key figures like CEO Andrea Pinchen and general manager Richard Wilks.
This move has caused frustration and tension not only among the playing group but also within the club’s management.
The timing is especially sensitive since Cheika is set to leave Leicester at the end of the season, adding more uncertainty to the situation.
Discontent Among Players and the Future of Everard
The timing of Everard’s dismissal has not gone down well with the players, especially the club’s prominent England internationals.
They voiced their disappointment, as Leicester had conceded the fewest tries in the Premiership last season, indicating that the defence was not the main issue.
These concerns have been raised with both Pinchen and Wilks, further escalating the internal tensions.
In a surprising twist, it has also emerged that Leicester’s leadership has asked Everard to return for the next season after Cheika departs.
However, given how he’s been treated, a return to the club seems unlikely.
Everard is reportedly being courted by Worcester Warriors, who are attempting to rebuild following their own financial struggles and are looking to join a new second-tier competition below the Premiership.
What’s Next for Leicester Tigers?
Leicester Tigers are still in the dark about who will replace Cheika at the end of the season.
One strong candidate is Paul Gustard, the former England assistant who is currently coaching Stade Francais.
Meanwhile, Leicester is set to face Northampton in a crucial Premiership match tonight, sitting fourth in the table and still in the hunt for a playoff spot.
In response to Everard’s removal, Leicester Tigers have declined to comment on the matter, citing a policy of not discussing the employment status of current staff.
The situation, however, continues to cause waves within the club as the season winds down.