RFU looking at home and abroad for next England coach

The Rugby Football Union (RFU) is casting the net far and wide for a potential successor to Eddie Jones – but could still appoint an Englishman with no international experience.

Jones this year signed a new contract until 2021, but his position has been called into question following England’s loss of form ahead of the 2019 Rugby World Cup.

Director of professional rugby Nigel Melville says the RFU are keeping their options open as they consider who might take over when Jones departs.

“We are looking domestically in the Premiership and seeing who is available and interested there,” he told BBC Sport.

“We are also looking at the wider scope across the world, because there are lots of people from other countries who may be available after 2019 who have international experience.

“But we may want to go with an England option who does not have international experience.

“It’s an open book at this stage, we are looking at all the options.

“We are seeing what would be the best fit for the England team.”

England will hope for an upturn in fortunes during a busy November, as they play Tests against South Africa, New Zealand, Japan and Australia.

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