Bates' Newcastle future looks uncertain

Newcastle chairman Dave Thompson has fuelled speculation that director of rugby Steve Bates is set for the axe by vowing to "put the club right" after a disappointing season.

The Falcons finally secured their Guinness Premiership status last weekend with a 32-30 victory at fellow strugglers Sale Sharks - only their sixth win in 21 league games.

Thompson wants a summer overhaul at Kingston Park and reports this morning stated that a review of the club's coaching staff is set to lead to Bates' departure.

"We are working hard behind the scenes, and we will put this club right," Thompson said.

"There will be a series of announcements over the coming weeks.

"I am bitterly disappointed with the performance this season, as I know our supporters are too. It has simply not been good enough.

"The passion shown by the supporters is going to be matched by the club next season. I promise that will happen.

"We will not let them down next season."

Thompson confirmed the were extending the deadline for discounted season tickets to take the planned summer changes into account.

"I have been genuinely humbled by our fantastic support this week," he said.

"The number who have committed to the club for next season is much more than we expected, and to be honest is much more than we deserve.

"With such good people backing us we cannot fail, and we will not fail."

Bates would be the latest coach to leave his position in a summer of management merry-go-round.

Mike Ruddock resigned as Worcester director of rugby after the Warriors' relegation while Mike Brewer has taken over as the new head coach at Sale.