Shaun Edwards, the defence coach for the French rugby team, has emerged as the leading candidate to join England following the unexpected departure of Felix Jones last month.
Both England head coach Steve Borthwick and the Rugby Football Union (RFU) had shown interest in bringing Edwards on board before he renewed his contract with France.
However, recent developments suggest that Edwards could soon become available, with Warren Gatland also reportedly eager to see him return to Wales, where Edwards has had significant coaching success since joining Wasps in 2001.
Edwards’ future has been a topic of speculation in the French media recently, with reports suggesting he may have become increasingly isolated from Fabien Galthie’s coaching team.
Earlier this year, French newspaper Midi Olympique highlighted concerns over France’s defensive performances during the 2024 Six Nations, noting: “Something has undeniably changed. Since the start of 2023, the Bleus have conceded more than three tries on six occasions, whereas this had never happened in the first three years.”
The publication further portrayed Edwards as somewhat of an outsider within the coaching setup, commenting: “The Englishman… appeared somewhat disconnected from the rest of the staff during the last World Cup, spending long hours on his own.”
Additionally, Midi Olympique pointed out signs of possible discord, citing the decision to reposition Matthieu Jalibert back to his usual defensive role, supported by number eight Gregory Alldritt, rather than the more central position Edwards had previously assigned him.
The newspaper questioned whether this move could be interpreted as a sign of a rift with Edwards, stating, “Should these choices be seen as a rejection of Shaun Edwards? A little, probably.”
NIGEL OWENS DREAM XV:
Fullback: Israel Folau (Australia)
Owens said: “For me, it’s nip and tuck between Halfpenny and Folau, next to nothing to choose between them. Leigh is brilliant because under the high ball and with his kicking at goal under pressure. He may not always break the line when running but puts his body on the line in defence and is a top-notch match-winner.
“But I go for Folau – only just, I should stress – because of his ability to seemingly beat his man every time he gets the ball in his hand. He’s such an exciting player and like Leigh he is one of the best under the high ball.
“It’s a toss of a coin for me… and it’s come down in Folau’s favour.”
Winger: Stuart Hogg (Scotland)
Owens said: “How can you fail to be impressed when watching Hogg play. He’s so exciting as he burst into that line and, of course, was named Six Nations player of the tournament.
“I know he’s a full-back for Scotland, but he is so quick and direct he could easily play on the wing. He reminds me a bit of Shane Williams with some of the things he does.
“When you see who is on the other wing in my team, you’ll see how they would work brilliantly in tandem.”
Outside-centre: Brian O’Driscoll (Ireland)
Owens said: “Not only is he one of the greatest centres in the history of rugby union but he’s a fantastic man off the field as well. O’Driscoll has been a wonderful ambassador for the sport and a real leader. He always respected referees and set the right example for others to follow.
“A legend of the game who conducted himself superbly, on and off the pitch.”
Inside-centre: Ma’a Nonu (New Zealand)
Owens said: “He’s another brilliant player and after every game, win or lose, he would come up and give me a hug. Ma’a has always found time at after-match functions or at breakfast if we’ve been staying at the same hotel to come over and have a chat.
“What a player, mind, too. One of the stalwarts of the New Zealand side for so many years.”
Winger: Shane Williams (Wales)
Owens said: “When people ask me who is the best player I have refereed it’s pretty much an impossible task to pick one because I’ve been lucky enough to take charge of so many greats.
“But if I’m pushed, I would pick Shane for what he achieved after coming from football at 17 or 18 years of age.
“He was in the mould of Gerald Davies in how he left defenders gasping for air as he beat them with those dazzling sidesteps. Nobody would fancy defending against a back three of Shane, Hogg and Folau, I can tell you that.”