There was shocking news from the England camp earlier this week, with it being reported that Irishman Felix Jones had unexpectedly left his role as defence coach.
The recruitment of the former Munster player was seen as a major coup for Steve Borthwick, with Jones having played a key role in South Africa's success during the previous few years. That hype seemed justified, with England's defence improving dramatically after his arrival.
However, it was shockingly revealed earlier this week that he has opted to leave the England setup after less than a year in the position. This followed the departure of head of strength and conditioning Aled Waters in recent weeks, leading to suggestions of possible unrest in the camp.
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England Stars Were Baffled By Irishman's Exit From Coaching Staff
While the public were shocked by the new of Felix Jones' departure, it seems as though those within the England camp were equally baffled.
Speaking after the news broke, Northampton and England fullback George Furbank admitted that the absence of Jones and Waters will leave a major hole in the setup.
We weren’t expecting it. Nobody really saw it coming. It was a bit of a shock. It was bit of an odd timing.
They will be a loss. I loved working with Felix especially. He was a very good coach so he’ll definitely be missed. But I’m sure the people Steve will bring in will do a good job...
It helped us go from a defence that was ranked fourth or fifth in the world to first or second. We definitely saw massive improvement.
Jones brought the South African defensive approach to the England setup, something that seemed to pay early dividends.
Furbank's Northampton and England teammate Fin Smith admitted that he was equally as surprised by the pair's sudden departure.
Really surprising. Definitely, definitely didn’t see it coming. It’s going to be a real shame with those two guys not being around.
Aled’s an amazing character and drives so much of the energy in there and Felix is one of the hardest-working coaches and one of the best rugby brains I’ve come across.
There’s no two ways about it – they’re going to be a big loss. It’s a real shock.
Personnel turnover in the England coaching setup is not a new phenomenon, with Eddie Jones having gone through a large number of backroom staff during his time in charge. However, it would have been hoped that this issue would ease after the appointment of Steve Borthwick.
English supporters will be hoping that this latest development does not halt the progress that the team have made over the last 12 months or so.
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