England Fly-Half George Ford Linked with Shock Code Switch - Ruck

England Fly-Half George Ford Linked with Shock Code Switch

Mike Ford, father of England fly-half George Ford, is eagerly anticipating the possibility of his son switching codes, envisioning a dynamic reunion on the field.

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Having previously coached George at Bath Rugby, Mike Ford would love to link up with his son once again, this time in rugby league.

Currently, as managing director of Oldham Rugby League Club, he has led a transformative period for the team.

In a recent interview with Planet Rugby, Mike Ford shared his hopes: “I’m hoping that when he is 35 or 36, he decides he has one more challenge in him. He comes back to the league and plays for Oldham.”

George Ford of England after winning during the Six Nations Match between England and Wales at Twickenham, London on 10 February 2024 (Photo: Tom Sandberg/PPAUK)

George Ford himself has shown interest in trying out rugby league, expressing his desire for more involvement in the game.

In an interview with The Sun, the 31-year-old stated, “I’d love to have a crack at rugby league. My involvement would be a lot more and that’s all you want. You want the ball in your hand, so I’d love to give it a go.”

While George remains committed to achieving more milestones in rugby union, he acknowledges his curiosity for rugby league, admiring the physical demands of the sport. “I’d like to have a crack in the halves one day. I’m not saying I’d be any good but I’d enjoy it,” he remarked.

With both father and son sharing this vision, the potential for George Ford to enter the rugby league arena remains an exciting possibility for the future.

Highest-paid rugby coaches:

6) Warren Gatland (Wales) – £580,000 per year

Warren Gatland, the head coach of the Welsh national rugby team, commands a salary of £580,000 per year. Renowned for his tactical acumen and leadership, Gatland has been a transformative figure for Welsh rugby.

His current contract, which can extend until the end of the World Cup in 2027, underscores his enduring value, potentially totaling £2.32 million.

Known for his strategic prowess, Gatland has repeatedly led Wales to success on the international stage, including Six Nations triumphs, earning him a place among the sport’s top coaching earners.

5) Eddie Jones (Japan) – £600,000 per year

Eddie Jones, the head coach of the Japanese national rugby team, earns £600,000 annually. With a reputation for turning teams into formidable contenders, Jones’ coaching career includes notable successes with England and Australia (first stint, not second).

His innovative strategies and rigorous training methods have made significant impacts wherever he has coached. Now leading Japan once again, Jones is tasked with continuing the team’s development and competitive presence on the global stage, reflecting his high value and esteemed position in international rugby coaching.

Eddie Jones, Coach of Barbarians during the The Killik Cup Match between Barbarians and World XV at Twickenham Stadium on 28 May 2023. Photo: Tom Sandberg/PPAUK

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