Steve Diamond joined Newcastle Falcons as consultant director of rugby in January, 2024.

The former hooker has a well-deserved reputation as one of the most astute operators in the game.

Appearing more than 300 times in Sale’s front row, he embarked on a 23-year coaching and managerial career, more than a decade of which was spent at Sale.

Having coached with Saracens, England A and the Russian national team, Diamond’s last Premiership appointment was with Worcester Warriors, whose final game in September 2022 saw them inflicting a 39-5 defeat on Newcastle.

A proud northerner who has long advocated for rugby in this region, Diamond spent a significant part of 2023 helping Edinburgh in his role as lead rugby consultant.