Martin Gleeson to join Wasps as assistant attack coach ahead of 2019/20 season

Wasps have hired the services of former rugby league centre Martin Gleeson as an assistant attack coach of the Gallagher Premiership club ahead of the 2019/20 season.

The 39-year-old will now make a switch from Salford Red Devils after being part of the Super League club since 2014 as an attack coach. He will now work as an assistant to Attack and Backs Coach Lee Blackett and will form an extended coaching panel that also includes Defence Coach Ian Costello and Forwards Coach Andy Titterrell.

“I’m thrilled to be making the move to Rugby Union and to be joining a team of Wasps’ calibre," said Glesson.

“I’ve had a fantastic time with Salford, but I feel now is the right time for a new challenge.

“Premiership Rugby is one of the most competitive leagues in Rugby Union so this is certainly a challenge I’m relishing, and I can’t wait to meet the team.”

Gleeson has represented Huddersfield Giants, St Helens, Warrington Wolves, Wigan Warriors, Hull FC and Salford City Reds. He has made international appearances for England and Great Britain between 2002 and 2008.

Wasps director of rugby Dai Young welcomed Gleeson's addition to the squad as they look for improved performance in the new season.

“We have operated with a smaller coaching team than most Premiership clubs for a while now.

“The plan was always to bolster it and I’m pleased to have found Martin, who is an exciting young coach.

“I believe he can really add to what we are trying to build here at Wasps.

“Martin has forged a very strong reputation as a quality coach within Rugby League, having made a big impact with Salford.

“Our current coaches have done an excellent job. I’m really pleased with how they have developed in their first Premiership coaching roles, and with Martin coming on board I am really pleased with how our set-up is looking ahead of the new season.

“Our attack has been a strong part of our game and we have been one of the top try-scoring teams in the Premiership for a number of seasons. Lee has done a great job for us, but I now feel that attack is more than a one-man job.

“We took a step back last season from where we would have liked to have been. Between the two of them, I believe they will complement each other and get our attack back to where we want it to be.”