Despite the likes of Stuart Barnes completely exposing Eddie Jones' argument that Italy's tactics were out of order at Twickenham almost two weeks ago, the England boss is still banging the drum and even aimed a cheeky pop at O'Shea and Italy while speaking to the media on Thursday.
England host Scotland on Saturday in what is expect to be the most competitive Calcutta Cup clash in recent memory as the Scots have looked a dramatically improved outfit in the championship this year, but while Italy surprised England and caught them off guard with their tactics in the ruck, Jones is not expecting any sort of unexpected difficulties this time out.
The England coach aimed a sly dig at Italy's tactics while suggesting that he thought Romain Poite had not understood the laws of the game correctly, rather than his players... Despite that being complete bullshit.
I thought we dealt with it fantastically well. There was someone confused in the first half and it wasn't our players.
I know Scotland are going to participate in the spirit of the game, so we don't need to worry about anything.
The whole press conference was an awkward and uncomfortable affair, as Jones had no interest in discussing the fitness of Owen Farrel who was seen receiving lengthy treatment for an injury during the morning training session.
Reports emerged that Farrell could miss the remainder of the championship, but Jones made a quip about bringing his dog to training and then suggested that the reporter who asked the question should use a big camera lens like the one that was used to "leak" Jones' teamsheet earlier in the week.
He could be in doubt, mate.
He's got a bad leg, so he couldn't finish training. I think he ran into my dog. I think he'll be alright. He's in doubt but we'll see.
I'm not going to tell you that mate. I'm sure you've got a long-range camera and you can go into one of the rooms and find out.
Tetchy.
It seems as though we will have to wait until Saturday for any information on Owen Farrell, and whether or not he will be fit to face Ireland, but it won't be coming from Eddie Jones, seemingly.
[via Stuff.co.nz]
