Sale Sharks have announced that head coach Bryan Redpath has left the club with immediate effect.

The 43-year-old brings to an end a lengthy association with the Aviva Premiership outfit, having spent five years at the AJ Bell Stadium as a player and three in a coaching capacity.

"I would like to thank the owners, coaches, players and staff for all their help and support since I returned to the club in 2012," Redpath said in a short statement. "Also to the supporters who have been great with me both as a player and as a coach."

Director of rugby Steve Diamond added: "I would like to thank Bryan for his contribution to the club over the last three seasons. Bryan played a big part in helping us finishing sixth last season and leaves us in good shape as we aim to finish as high as possible in the table.

"Bryan has also helped with bringing some of the youngsters through. I am sorry to see him leave and wish him all the best for the future."

Redpath initially joined Sale back in 2000, captaining the side to their first ever final victory two years later against Pontypridd at the Kassam Stadium.