Every word Tony Smith said on his surprise Hull KR departure and his future

Tony Smith stunned the rugby league world on Wednesday by confirming he will leave his position at Hull Kingston Rovers at the end of the season. Smith has failed to agree terms on a new deal beyond the current campaign, leaving the Robins on the hunt for a replacement for 2023 and beyond.

It was perhaps the manner of Smith's announcement which was most shocking, however. With many upstairs at Rovers unaware Smith was about to confirm the news, he began what was expected to be a routine pre-match press conference to preview Saturday's game with Wakefield Trinity by revealing his future plans beyond this year.

Here is everything Smith said on the news. Smith began proceedings by saying: "Today I've made a decision about my future. I've just spoke to the players and the chairman, I won't be coaching at Hull KR beyond the end of this year.

Behind the scenes of Tony Smith's Hull KR exit as news surprises even the club

"I'm going to step aside and hand it over to the next person to pick up the banner and carry it strongly. It saddens me to say it but I think it's the best thing for the organisation. I've really enjoyed coaching this special group of players and I've loved the support I've been given here by all the supporters. It's been great.

"Before anybody asks, no I haven't got the job at Leeds and it won't be me that's announced. And there's no other job I'm leaving for. It's just a decision I've come to. I haven't been in negotiations, we aren't talking about money, it's just the right thing to do and the right time to announce it. It gives the club an opportunity to find a suitable replacement and the players deserve that and it gives me a chance to look for my next venture, wherever that may be.

"It needs for me to