Back-to-back World Cup winning defence coach Felix Jones has left his role with England after sources revealed he was unsettled by an unstable working environment.
Jones, who has been in the role for just seven months, was involved in South Africa’s last two World Cup wins and revolutionised Steve Borthwick’s ‘blitz’ defence. His resignation raises ques-tions about Borthwick’s management style and his ability to maintain a happy working atmosphere given that Aled Walters, his highly rated head of strength and conditioning, left earlier this month to take up a role with Ireland under Andy Farrell.
Kevin Sinfield remains involved but has had various roles while Tom Tombleson, another strength and conditioning coach who had beenin post since 2014, has also left in recent weeks.
Walters, along with Jones, was part of South Africa’s backroom team at the 2019 World Cup and had worked under Borthwick at Leicester Tigers before joining him with England. The defection of Walters and the uncertainty over Sinfield’s role is understood to have played a part in Jones’ decision to leave.
The RFU is not commenting on the situation, but Jones’ decision will come as a major setback, especially in the wake of Walters’ departure.
Main man: Felix Jones, right, talking to George Ford
PICTURE: Getty Images
Given his proven track record, Jones will be in high demand despite sources saying he has a 12-month notice period in his contract, which he is unlikely to be held to.
Jones received a lot of credit for England’s improved Six Nations performance earlier this year, finishing third and achieved a notable victory over Ireland at Twickenham which was aided by his blitz defence system.
Jones, 37, began his coaching career at Munster after a neck injury ended his playing days which as a full back, include 13 Ireland caps won between 2011 and 2015.
