RL legend Alex Murphy has made a sensational return to Hilton Park after Leigh Centurions head coach Paul Terzis quit on Thursday afternoon.

The Australian has walked out after a series of meetings with his board of directors in the wake of Leigh's heavy defeat at Salford last Sunday.

Leigh are just a couple of games away from securing a third Grand Final appearance in four years but now they have handed the responsibilty of guiding the club into Super League to Murphy.

Murphy, aged 64, will return to Leigh for a fifth time as Director of Football, sharing the coaching duties with star player Tommy Martyn and Norman Turley.

Terzis, who knew that his current contract was unlikely to be extended beyond the current season, has openly admitted applying for jobs both in this country and in Australia. He is now expected to link up with his old mate Ian Millward, who he took over from four years ago, as number two at St Helens.

A statement from Leigh reads: "Paul Terzis has stepped down from the role of Head Coach and General Manager with immediate effect. Paul has been a great servant and ambassador to the club achieving the Minor Premiership, Trans-Pennine Cup and two NFP Grand Finals.

"The club has taken this very difficult decision in view that Paul will not be coaching in National League One next season and no contract could be offered for Super League given our uncertain current position.

"The club wishes Paul and his family the best of luck and success in any future career he may establish and thank him for his excellent service to the town of Leigh for the past four years."