England head coach Steve Borthwick has encountered a major obstacle in his bid to appoint a new defence coach following Felix Jones’ shock resignation last month.
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The Rugby Football Union (RFU) had been working swiftly to secure a replacement ahead of the upcoming Autumn Nations Series, but their efforts have hit a stumbling block with French clubs refusing to release Borthwick’s leading candidates.
Top Targets Unavailable
Reports suggest Paul Gustard, defence coach at Stade Francais, and Joe El-Abd, head coach at Oyonnax, were on Borthwick’s shortlist to replace Jones. However, both French clubs have indicated that it would be “impossible” for either coach to leave their current roles early.
Despite Jones having a 12-month notice period, there had been hope within the RFU that a replacement could be confirmed soon. Now, the potential unavailability of Gustard and El-Abd poses a significant challenge for England as they approach a key phase in their international schedule.
Oyonnax President Dismisses Approach
Dougal Bendjaballah, president of Oyonnax, confirmed that no official contact had been made by the RFU regarding El-Abd but was firm in his stance that the head coach would not be allowed to leave before his contract expires.
“I have no contact with the RFU,” Bendjaballah stated. “But for Joe, the situation is clear: it is impossible for him to leave Oyonnax now. We have a deal, and he will finish the season.”
England Left Short-Staffed
With time running out before the Autumn Nations Series, Borthwick’s search for a new defence coach has been thrown into uncertainty, leaving England potentially short-staffed ahead of a crucial period of international fixtures.
Brian O’Driscoll didn’t hesitate when naming the best player he’s ever seen live
Sourcing several Q&A’s from down the years, including one with the Six Nations website, here are his top five opponents:
5. Ma’a Nonu (New Zealand)
Known initially more for his braided hair and eyeliner, he added passing and kicking to his raw line-breaking power to become one of the great centres, capping his Test career with that superb World Cup final try.
Brian O’Driscoll SAID: “Same height as me [5-foot-11] and still 16-stone. Probably the most complete centre in the modern game.”
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