Alex Codling to join Newcastle Falcons as head coach ahead of 2023/24 season

Newcastle Falcons have announced the appointment of Alex Codling as the new head coach ahead of the 2023/24 season.

Codling is currently part of French second-tier side Oyonnax where he is the forwards coach. He also worked with Harlequins as forwards coach previously and also had stints with Ealing Trailfinders and England.

He will take over from the role succeeding Dave Walder, who is set to leave the club at the end of the season. Walder had already stepped down from his role with the Falcons with Mark Laycock in interim charge.

“I am very excited to be able to make a contribution to the next chapter in Newcastle Falcons’ history," he told the club's official website.

“There's lot of exciting talent in the squad, and our job as a coaching staff is to help the players in every way we can to continue to develop and give them real clarity on how we want to play.

“As a coach it is about testing yourself in different environments and constantly looking at ways in which you can improve every day.

“I will take a lot from my time working in France and I can't wait to start working with the Falcons’ staff and players, but in the meantime I want to continue to do everything I can to help Oyonnax achieve their dream as the season draws to an exciting conclusion with a home semi-final on the horizon.”

Newcastle Falcons are positioned 11th in the Gallagher Premiership table after managing just six wins from 17 matches.