Wednesday 20 January 2016

Eddie Jones appointed new head coach: a G'day to be English?

So, it has been officially announced that Aussie Eddie Jones will be taking over from Stuart Lancaster as England's new head coach. As the first non-English head coach of the national team Jones has the mammoth task of dragging England out of their post-world cup slump and back in to winning ways.

For the past three years Jones has been the head coach of Japan, a side who have clearly flourished under his leadership after beating the likes of South Africa and winning the 2015 Pacific Nations Cup. Jones has also coached his own national team of Australia, as well as assisting and coaching high end teams such as Australian club Brumbies and Saracens here in the premiership.

His credentials seem more than satisfactory to steer the wheel of English rugby in the right direction, but how will the fans and players react? While many may see the appointment of an overseas coach as being the breath of fresh air that this England side needs there are some patriots who would prefer to "keep it within the family", as they say.

However, Jones isn't the only new face as a result of the RFU's shake-up. Forwards coach Graham Rowntree and assistant coach Andy Farrell have also been axed from the lead coaching set up. An old friend of Jones', Glen Ella, has been tipped to assist England on their attacking game play during their upcoming series tour of Australia. Steve Borthwick will replace Rowntree as forwards coach, with Paul Gustard taking charge of England's defence.

All eyes will be firmly set on Jones as he journeys down under with England to face his home nation this June. Time will tell if Jones' overseas influence will help bolster England's success.

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