ROYSTON Rugby Club Chairman David Gee is backing Luke Green to go all the way to the top after the head coach left the club to take up a prestigious job with the Rugby ­Football Union. Green has been appointed an RFU community rugby coach, based in his ho

ROYSTON Rugby Club Chairman David Gee is backing Luke Green to go all the way to the top after the head coach left the club to take up a prestigious job with the Rugby ­Football Union.

Green has been appointed an RFU community rugby coach, based in his home town of Leicester.

He took charge of Royston for the last time during Saturdays 40-7 win over ­Hendon. Assistant coach Kevin Green has been promoted to the role of head coach.

Gee said: "We're sad to see Luke go, but his career lies in full time rugby. We hope he goes on to become a big name in the game.

"One of the reasons we chose him in the first place was his determination to succeed and his dedication to rugby - it's his life. We knew there was always a chance he would move on and everyone at the club wishes him well."

Luke Green said he was sad to be leaving Royston, but looking forward to the challenge of his new position.

"I've been looking for a role like this for three or four years, it's a really good progression for me. Although I'm employed by the RFU, I'll be based at Leicester Tigers, doing ­coaching courses at schools and in the community," he said.

"I'll be working with the likes of ex-Tigers player Glen Gelderbloom, who is a former Heineken Cup winner, so it's going to be a great experience.

"Royston is a fantastic club and I'm proud of the progression we've made in such a short time. Kevin is a former international coach and he'll do a great job. I'll be back to watch the lads as often as my new job allows."

Kevin Green says he believes continuity is crucial ahead of this weekend's trip to Old Grammarians.

"Obviously I'll be putting my own personal stamp on things, but on the whole I'm looking to continue the good work that's been started this season," he said. "Everyone is still in great spirits."

Royston hope to have Steve Clay back in contention for Saturday's match. The skipper has missed the last few games with an injury but is expected to resume training this week.

"Away games are always tough, but they are the kind of side we can beat," said Green. "As a newly promoted club your first target is consolidation, but if we can get a few wins under our belts before Christmas I believe we can push for the title in the new year.