Catalan Dragons: Reserve coach Steve Deakin allowed to depart

Steve Deakin helped St Esteve XIII to the French Elite Grand Final in 2013

Catalan Dragons have allowed reserve-team coach Steve Deakin to terminate his contract early and return to England on compassionate grounds.

Deakin led the reserve side, St Esteve XIII Catalans, to the French league Grand Final in 2013 but his side were beaten 33-26 by Pia.

He also helped current first-grade players such as Morgan Escare, Eloi Pelissier and Julian Bousquet progress.

"I have had the privilege and honour to be coach of St Esteve," Deakin said.

"In that time I have made countless friends, shared moments that will stay with me forever and seen 11 players that have made their debut for the emblematic French Super League club.

"I would like to place on record my appreciation to the club president, Bernard Guasch, for having not only giving me the opportunity to work for the club, but also for the way that he allowed me to finish my contract early, so that I may return to England on compassionate grounds."

Prior to his move to France, Deakin also coached Huddersfield, London Broncos, Keighley and Sheffield.