BREAKING: Eddie Jones axed as England boss

NEWS: The Rugby Football Union (RFU) confirmed that Eddie Jones has been dismissed as the England head coach.

The RFU revealed they will now conclude the long-term work it has been undertaking on coach succession planning with changes set to be announced in the near future.

In the interim, Richard Cockerill will take over the day-to-day running of the men’s performance team.

The veteran Australian boss met with Twickenham chiefs on Monday after presiding over England’s worst year since 2008.

Jones, 62, was contracted to take England through to next year’s Rugby World Cup in France, after which he was set to step down.

But the often outspoken and abrasive coach’s departure has been accelerated after 2022 where England lost six out of 12 Tests, with five wins and a draw.

The year ended with a decisive 27-13 defeat by World Cup holders South Africa, usually loyal England fans jeering their team off the Twickenham pitch after a lacklustre display.

*Article continues below…

Speaking about the review, RFU CEO, Bill Sweeney said; “It is important to recognise the huge contribution Eddie has made to English rugby, winning three Six Nations Championships, one Grand Slam and taking us to a Rugby World Cup final.

“He has the highest win ratio of any previous England head coach and has helped develop the leadership skills of many players and coaches.

“I am grateful to Eddie for all he has done for England across many areas of the game and the professional way in which he has approached reviewing the performance of the team.

“He has provided the panel with astute insight and meaningful lessons that will support the team performance going forward.”

Eddie Jones said; “I am pleased with much that we have achieved as an England team and I look forward to watching the team’s performance in the future.

“Many of the players and I will no doubt keep in touch and I wish them all well in their future careers.”

There had been speculation Warren Gatland might be appointed on a short-term deal.

That ended, however, when it was announced on Monday the New Zealander would be returning for a second spell as Wales coach after a dismal run of results under his successor and compatriot Wayne Pivac.

Former England captain Steve Borthwick, the coach of Premiership champions Leicester is now the leading contender.

While Crusaders coach Scott Robertson is another named that might be lured from New Zealand.