Hull KR make new head coach vow following Tony Smith's 'surprise' decision to step down

Hull KR have vowed to appoint a new head coach capable of building on the progress Tony Smith has made during his time in charge at Craven Park. Smith announced his shock decision to leave at the end of the season during his pre-match press conference earlier today.

The head coach insisted he believed the decision was right for the club after insisting he hasn’t been able to have the ‘influence’ he would like at KR. Smith will see out the Super League season with Rovers before leaving and the club will begin their search for a new man to take over.

KR have since released a short statement detailing their surprise and their plans regarding the appointment of Smith’s successor.

“Hull KR can confirm Tony Smith will leave the club at the end of the season,” the statement read. “Much to our surprise during his weekly press conference, Tony announced his intention to bring the curtain down on his two-and-a-half-year reign at the Robins.

“We will now fully focus on ensuring we appoint a head coach for 2023 and beyond who builds on all the positive momentum and progress the club has made over the last two seasons. This season offers plenty of promise, we know the character and quality of our playing and coaching squad will ensure we give everything to make 2022 a great season.”