Noble leaves Wigan post

Wigan coach Brian Noble has announced his immediate departure from the club.

Noble, whose future has been the subject of speculation for most of the season, bowed out after Saturday's engage Super League play-off semi-final defeat at St Helens.

Wigan have already called a press conference for Wednesday to announce their new man, with reserve coach Shaun Wane and Australian Michael Maguire thought to be in the running.

Noble told Sky Sports: "I'm not going to be at Wigan, which is disappointing.

"I've not told the players, I kept that away from them, but I've known for a week.

"I met (chairman) Ian Lenagan a week ago and we agreed perhaps a change is the best, and that's the way it's going to be."

Noble took charge at Wigan in 2006 after a hugely successful spell with Bradford Bulls, whom he guided to three Super League titles.

He steered the Warriors clear of relegation in his first season and his tenure at the club has since been noted for its semi-final near-misses.

Noble, also the Great Britain coach from 2004-06, has been linked with the vacancy at Welsh club Celtic Crusaders for next season.