Euorpean Challenge Cup Pool 3 leaders London Irish have announced for family reasons Scott Staniforth is leaving the club and returning to Australia with immediate effect.
The winger made an immediate impact in the European Challenge Cup, scoring a hat-trick of tries against Overmach Parma in Round 1.
The club has agreed to transfer Scott from his contract on compassionate grounds and expects that he will continue his rugby career with the Western Force, the new Super 14 franchise based in Perth, Australia.
"We've done all that we can to keep Scott at the club but to no avail. He and his family are moving back to Australia to address a pressing family health matter," said Brian Smith, London Irish Director of Rugby.
"In the circumstances the club has negotiated a transfer with the Perth Force and released him from his contract.
"He leaves with the thanks of all at London Irish for his great contribution to the club and best wishes for himself and his family back home."
Scott joined London Irish in July 2004 and has made 34 appearances scoring 13 tries. He was the London Irish Player of the Season in
"There is a great spirit at Irish, I have enjoyed playing with the boys and the supporters have been fantastic," said Staniforth.
"I'd like to thank the coaches and management for their understanding and hope to see the club in the Heineken Cup next season."
London Irish has been working with Scott on the timing of his departure and has apparently been active in the player recruitment market in anticipation of his return home.
The club expects to confirm the signing of a new winger shortly.