SAINTS are looking for a new Academy under 21s coach following last week's departure of Dave Lyon.

Lyon has coached Saints Academy for the past four years, whilst maintaining a full-time career with Wigan council, which he wishes to continue.

The former Saints, Warrington and Widnes full back has been a success with the senior academy, guiding the young under 21s into a play-off position this term.

He also been successful in the international field, assisting Mike Gregory in the England U18s triumph over the Australian schoolboys. He has already been taken on board to assist Gregory in coaching the Scottish national side in the forthcoming European Nations Cup.

However, having reviewed their coaching structure Saints CEO Sean McGuire and coach Ian Millward, have determined the need for a full time academy coach, something Lyon is unable to do due to his job.

Millward said: "We are very disappointed that Dave can't continue with the club because he's done some great work here with the youngsters and with his input to the coaching team too."

Lyon said: "I'm sorry to have to leave Saints but once it became clear that they saw the role as becoming a full-time position I had a tough choice to make.

"But although the decision was a tough one I think it's the right one - the timing is simply not right for me to give up my career to become a full time coach."

However, Lyon is committed to continuing his coaching career, adding: "I've really enjoyed my coaching work with Saints and that is something I do want to continue, hopefully within Super League, so I'll be considering my options over the coming weeks.

"I'd just like to thank the Saints for giving me the coaching opportunity there and in particular to thank Ian Millward for his support over the years in helping to developing my coaching skills.

"It's a sad time from my point of view because the club and its fans have given me great support.

"I hope they kick-on from here to continue the success I've been part of in my time at Saints, which includes two Grand Finals, two Challenge Cup and two World Club Championships."

This is the second time Lyon has been forced to curtail his career at Saints due to his work - he turned down a full time Super League contract back in 1996 to continue in his job.