Steve Borthwick targets new England defence coach | England rugby team

Steve Borthwick is on the hunt for a new defence coach as he looks to restore order to his ranks following the shock sacking of Felix Jones.

South African manager Norman Laker is said to be in the picture, while Paul Gustard has also emerged as a candidate, along with Joe El-Abd, as Borthwick looks to bolster his coaching staff after a summer of turmoil. Former England No.8 Nick Easter has also been linked with the role, but it is understood that Borthwick is expected to be one of the aforementioned three candidates.

Laker, who holds the role at the Stormers of Cape Town, is said to be the continuity candidate, having built a reputation for aggressive linespeed. His contract with the Stormers runs until 2027, but he is said to have a release clause if he is offered an international position. Like Jones, he has previously worked with former South Africa head coach Jacques Nienaber.

Gustard held the role for the first two and a half years under Eddie Jones before moving to Harlequins. But his time at the Stoop was an unhappy one – he left in January 2021 and Quins were crowned champions five months later – but he has rebuilt his reputation as a defence coach at Treviso and now Stade Français.

El-Abd is close to Borthwick, having spent the past five years as head coach at Oyonnax, who play in France’s second division. During his active career, El-Abd made over 100 appearances for Bristol before moving to France.

According to the BBC, Borthwick has spoken to the three candidates and the head coach is said to be hoping to sign his player before England’s international campaign in November, which will see New Zealand, Australia, South Africa and Japan visit Twickenham.

It is also understood that whether the successful candidate is available to start work in the autumn or must serve a notice period will determine whether Jones – who is serving a 12-month notice period – remains in place for the November tests.

The Rugby Football Union was surprised by Jones’ resignation this summer, following Aled Walters’ decision to step down as strength and conditioning coach and join Ireland. Jones had been in the job for only eight months before he resigned, but England had made significant progress under his aggressive blitz defence.