London Broncos head coach Joey Grima has stepped down citing family reasons and a desire to return to Australia.

Grima was appointed as Tony Rea's replacement in May but was unable to halt the inevitable slide out of the Super League and into the Championship.

The Broncos have lost two of their first three Championship fixtures this term, including Sunday's 25-12 loss at Leigh Centurions.

He said: “Due to some personal family circumstances out of my control I have decided to step down as head coach. I must focus 100 per cent on these personal issues at hand.

"It would not be fair on staff, our club, the players and supporters if I could not plan and lead our club to my full capacity.

“While it is sad particularly after making so many positive changes to our club along with David Hughes, Jason Loubser and my amazing staff, my family has to come first. 

"My decision was made entirely by my wife and I, which David Hughes has generously accepted.”

London Broncos Chairman David Hughes said: “We are really sorry to see Joey go, we made every effort to persuade Joey to stay on but he had made his mind up over the past month and we respect his decision.”

Grima oversaw the Broncos' only Super League win last term, 40-36 over Leeds Rhinos at The Hive, but could net prevent London finishing bottom of the pile with just two points.

The former Parramatta Eeels hooker re-built his squad as the season drew to a close and was rewarded with an opening-day win over Doncaster RLFC but has overseen two losses since.

Assistant head coach Andrew Henderson will take over the role of head coach on an interim basis.