Joe Marler and Andy Goode have renewed their Twitter rivalry following England’s quarter-final triumph against Fiji.
After Ireland and Wales lost on Saturday, England is the last home nation in the tournament, and on 21 October will face either hosts France or holders South Africa, whose quarter-final kicks off at 20:00 BST.
Either of those two sides will pose a significantly greater challenge for an England team who enjoyed their best performance of the tournament so far after a turbulent 2023.
Former England fly-half Andy Goode, who is often very opinionated during games, tweeted in the second half: “Marler asleep in defense probably thinking about trying to be unfunny….”
Marler, never afraid of engaging in a war of words, responded: “Appreciate the feedback mate x.”
He later added: “And give me a shout if you need a ticket for next week mate – my shout x.”
It’s the second time this week that Marler has got into it with Goode on social media.
Earlier this week Goode said in his podcast that Henry Arundell had been dropped due to a scrap with England captain Joe Marler.
This story was denied by the RFU with Marler posting “This bloke” along with a clown emoji.
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“Need more” – Three changes Steve Borthwick should make for Rugby World Cup semi-final
Below, we look at three possible changes head coach Steve Borthwick could make for the semi-final in Paris next weekend.
#1. Marcus Smith
Telegraph 5/10: “Lord he was in the wars. Whether having Semi Radradra bouncing him in the tackle, Josua Tuisova ragdolling him, or going for an HIA, Smith showed huge heart. Jury out whether he will stay at full back for the semi-final.”
Rugby Pass 6.5/10: “Picked for just his second start in the full-back position, he worked well with some early ball but got caught on a run from inside his own half with England 8-0 up and that turnover resulted in a missed Fijian shot at the posts. Soon took a smack to the head from the yellow-carded Vinaya Habosi on a carry in the lead-up to the Marchant try. Returned to resume playing a very capable part in the win despite the need for further on-pitch running repairs.”
Planet Rugby 6/10: “As Steve Borthwick predicted, Fiji didn’t test his aerial skills, but Smith didn’t really cut loose. Conceded one penalty when trying to counter, but he did mop up well at times and that extra pair of eyes helped Owen Farrell.”
Replacement: Freddie Steward