Former Wales and Lions fly-half Stephen Jones has been temporarily promoted to the role of Newcastle Red Bulls head coach, after it was announced today would be Alan Dickens’ last day at the club.
Jones, 48, has been placed in charge until the end of the season, having joined the PREM’s bottom-of-the-table club as a senior assistant coach in December last year.
After enjoying a stellar 13-year international career as a player, the Grand Slam winner turned his hand to coaching in 2013.
He has specialised as an attack coach, working at Wasps, Scarlets, Wales under Wayne Pivac, and with Moana Pasifika in Super Rugby before his move to Tyneside.
The search for a full-time head coach continues, but if Jones manages to emulate what Michael Carrick has achieved at Manchester United as a caretaker boss, his name could be put forward as a long-term solution.
Former Ulster boss Dan McFarland, currently working as forwards coach at Japan Rugby League One outfit Kobelco Kobe Steelers, is reportedly in the frame for the job.
Speculation linking Scotland boss Gregor Townsend as the man to lead the Red Bulls forward, either as Director of Rugby or head coach, after the 2027 World Cup, has also been rife.
A statement issued by Newcastle confirmed the current situation: “Newcastle Red Bulls can confirm that Alan Dickens will leave his role as head coach on Monday 16 March 2026, following a mutual agreement reached at Alan’s request to allow him to pursue other opportunities.
“Alan joined the club in June 2024 and has contributed during a significant period in the club’s development. We thank him for his contribution, and for his work with players and staff during his time here.
“Everyone at Newcastle Red Bulls wishes Alan and his family every success for the future, and the next stage of his career.
“Stephen Jones will assume the role of head coach until the end of the current season.”