England are unsure how involved their exiled coach, Felix Jones, is in preparations for their crucial game against South Africa.
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The 37-year-old former Ireland international announced he would be stepping down from his role as England’s defence coach and is now serving a 12-month notice period. But just how connected is he to the team?
Richard Wigglesworth: Left in the Dark
Attack coach Richard Wigglesworth revealed he hasn’t been in contact with Jones. “I’ve not spoken to him,” Wigglesworth said. “I don’t know [if he has been delivering analysis]. He’s behind the scenes, it’s not for me [to say]. For the analysis guys and other people…he was obviously defence and that side of it, so…”
Despite Jones’ previous inside knowledge of South Africa, Wigglesworth added, “I’m sure [his knowledge] has been tapped into but their coaches have [also] changed since he was there. They’re playing a slightly different style.”
Jones’ Role: Remote Analyst
Jones is reportedly working remotely, taking on analyst duties, while Joe El-Abd steps into the defence coach position. However, even players like Henry Slade aren’t clear on Jones’ current involvement.
Henry Slade: Focusing on Defence
“We don’t have any contact with Felix,” Slade explained. “I’m not sure if the coaches do or not. We’ve been working with Joe and our defensive leaders, trying to set the defence and the team up to defend as well as possible.”
Slade admitted there have been defensive struggles: “Obviously things have not quite gone as well and when not everyone is on the same page – some people flying, some people not – it looks a bit ragged.”
He emphasised the importance of cohesion: “The thing with the blitz is you have to fully commit, go all in, and be together. Then it becomes strong.”
The proud Rugby WAGs who’ll cheer on England this Autumn – including model, clothing store owner and restauranteur
When England’s Rugby team clashes with New Zealand in the Autumn Nations Series opener, all eyes won’t just be on the players.
Off the field, the players’ wives and girlfriends (rugby WAGs) are a source of strength and style, with a few glamorous details of their own.
Katie George – Jamie George’s Partner in Life
Katie and Jamie George have been a power couple for years. The Saracens hooker wed Katie in 2020 after six years of dating, with teammate Elliot Daly standing as best man. Their love story is a strong one, showing a deep bond and unwavering support for each other.
Mimi Fall – Maro Itoje’s Fiancée
The towering Maro Itoje recently put a ring on it! The 30-year-old popped the question on a holiday to Nigeria, and his now-fiancée, Mimi Fall, said yes.
Known for being private, Maro shared the news with fans through Mimi’s Instagram, where England teammate Marcus Smith was quick to congratulate the happy couple.
Mimi is not only a model but also an artist, and she and Maro first met while modelling together.
Megan Slade – Henry Slade’s Wife and Businesswoman
Henry Slade and his wife, Megan, tied the knot in 2022, and they share two beautiful children.
Megan runs a children’s fashion line, Olive & Bud, known for high-quality basics with soft, earthy color palettes, co-founded with another new mum.
This Devon-based brand is gaining popularity, and Megan is as hands-on in her business as she is with her family.
Atdhetare Hoxha – George Ford’s Resilient Partner
England fly-half George Ford is riding high in life, not only on the field but also at home, with his wife Atdhetare and their new baby.
Atdhetare has an inspiring journey, arriving in the UK as a child refugee from Kosovo. Driven by passion, she opened her own Italian restaurant, Sorella, in Saddleworth in 2020, bringing her love for food to life after overcoming a challenging past.
Her resilience is a source of strength for George.
Beth Dolling – Marcus Smith’s Glamorous Girlfriend
The Harlequins fly-half Marcus Smith has been dating model and singer Beth Dolling since 2019, and the pair regularly give fans a glimpse into their romance on social media.
Beth, who’s worked with M MODELS MANAGEMENT and appeared in campaigns for PrettyLittleThing, has over 35,000 followers on Instagram.
She’s also an aspiring singer, sharing clips of her vocals on a separate Instagram account, described simply as “Just some girl that likes to sing.”
