Taylor punted for Lang

South Sydney management today informed Jason Taylor that his services would no longer be required, with premiership winning coach and the club's current football consultant John Lang set to take over.

Taylor's contract was torn up after he allegedly provoked an altercation with player David Fa'alogo at the Rabbitoh's end of year drinks last week. In retaliation, Taylor subsequently copped a knockout blow from the Kiwi international.

Taylor fronted the Rabbitohs board earlier this week, however the board decided today via teleconference that the 38-year-old should go.

The former record holder of most career points, Taylor began his coaching life at Parramatta mid way through 2006 when Brian Smith departed. He was lured to Redfern for season 2007 by Bunnies powerbrokers to replace Shaun McRae. The rookie coach guided his club to the finals that year for the first time since 1989.

Former Penrith and Cronulla mentor Lang returns to NRL coaching for the first time since being sacked by the Panthers in 2006. He has been signed by Souths for two years.