Bloodgate boss answers Falcons SOS
Former Harlequins coach Dean Richards will be Newcastle Falcons' Director of Rugby next season, after serving a three-year ban for his role in the "bloodgate" scandal, it was announced Wednesday.
Newcastle said in a statement on their website that the former England and British Lions international would take the helm for the 2012-2013 after winning the race to secure his services.
He will take over from former Springbok forwards coach Gary Gold, who has been in charge on a short-term three-month contract.
Richards, 48, has not had any involvement in rugby since stepping down from his post at Harlequins in 2009 as the scandal over the use of fake blood capsules during a European Cup match unfolded.
The former police officer was banned for three years after he was adjudged to have played a central role in the furore that rocked English rugby.
Richards, who won 48 caps for England and took part in two Lions tours in 1989 and 1993, said he had been lured to Newcastle after being impressed by plans laid out for the club by owner Semore Kurdi.
"I met up with Semore and his vision made my mind up," said Richards, who guided Leicester to two European Cup triumphs during his reign at the club from 1998 to 2004.
"I am delighted to get the opportunity to join Newcastle Falcons. Whilst there was interest from other clubs, there are two reasons why I chose the Falcons -- the supporters and Semore Kurdi's ambition for the club."
Richards acknowledged the passionate Falcons fan-base, saying: "The Falcons fans are very enthusiastic about their rugby and they are fantastic people with a great sense of humour who you can enjoy a laugh with."
Falcons owner Semore Kurdi has hailed the appointment of Richards adding: "It is not often that you get a chance to work with two people as talented and accomplished as Dean Richards and Gary Gold.
"Dean needs no introduction in the world of rugby, and it will be a true honour to have him at Newcastle Falcons next season.
"In the meantime we are 100 percent behind Gary and his team who have and who continue to work magnificently as we fight to preserve our Premiership status.
"The progress we are making and the tremendous support from our loyal fan-base is crucial in our fight to stay in the Premiership and I guarantee that Gary and his team will have the support of everyone associated with the Falcons as they have mine over the challenging weeks ahead between now and the end of the season."