Harlequins terminate Paul Gustard’s contract with immediate effect

Harlequins have terminated the contract of director of rugby Paul Gustard with immediate effect.

Pressure has been mounting on the 44-year-old after winning just two out of eight games this season.

The decision was made on Wednesday morning and staff were subsequently made aware at lunchtime, Sportsmail can reveal.

Harlequins made the decision to let go of Paul Gustard on Wednesday amid a poor run of form

Harlequins have endured a miserable run of form, winning just two of eight games this season

There has been growing unrest at The Stoop, where there has been speculation about a player exodus this summer.

A number of senior players have been considering their future at the club after growing frustrated with the club culture.

Leading England internationals are considering moves elsewhere, while No 10 prodigy Marcus Smith is understood to have been offered to rivals.

Frustrations have been growing on the recruitment front, with lock Elliot Stooke among the players to turn down approaches.

Gustard left Eddie Jones’ England setup to join Quins in 2018.

Harlequins’ No 10 prodigy Marcus Smith could soon be on his way out of the club

Gustard left his role with England under Eddie Jones to become Quins’ director of rugby