Steve Borthwick homes in on new England defence coach

09/16/2024 03:15 PM

• Post vacant after shock resignation of Jones
• Laker, Gustard and El-Abd all in contention

Steve Borthwick is closing in on a new defence coach as he moves to restore order to his ranks following the shock resignation of Felix Jones.

The South African coach Norman Laker is believed to be in the frame while Paul Gustard has also emerged as a candidate along with Joe El-Abd as Borthwick seeks to bolster his staff following a summer of upheaval. The former England No 8 Nick Easter has also been linked with the role, but it is understood that ­Borthwick's appointment is expected to be one of the aforementioned three candidates.