Shaun Edwards has officially departed the Red Roses after completing his short-term consultancy role, and has lifted the lid on discussions with Steve Borthwick about joining England's men's coaching staff.
The highly-rated defence coach had been linked with a return to the international set-up under Borthwick, with many viewing him as a potential successor to the England head coach.
However, Edwards has confirmed in October that he will join Argentina's coaching staff through to the 2027 Rugby World Cup.
His involvement with the Red Roses came after he agreed to a short-term consultancy until the conclusion of the WXV Global Series. That campaign ended at the weekend, with England beating the USA.
Edwards previously spent six years in charge of France's defence, having joined Les Bleus in 2020. He played a key role in their Guinness Men's Six Nations Grand Slam in 2022, as well as their successive championship triumphs in 2025 and 2026.
Before moving to France, he enjoyed considerable success with Wasps, winning two Champions Cups and four English league titles. He initially worked as defence coach before stepping up to become head coach.
The RFU had previously approached Edwards about joining its coaching pathway in 2006 and 2008. Chief executive Bill Sweeney also held informal discussions with him in 2021, but ultimately decided against competing with France for his services.
Edwards has now provided further insight into his conversations with Borthwick, admitting he was willing to take almost any role within the England set-up.
"I had a good chat with Steve over the phone," Edwards told Rugby Union Weekly.
"I said to Steve he can make me assistant kit man and I'll be there, I'll be ready for work.
"He was very, very honest with me and I thanked him for that."
Borthwick's coaching structure is already taking shape ahead of the 2027 Rugby World Cup, with Richard Wigglesworth overseeing England's defence alongside Byron McGuigan and Joe El-Abd.
Edwards revealed that Borthwick was content with his existing backroom team and had no intention of making changes.
"He said he was happy with his staff and the way things have been going, and I respected him for that."
England's recent form has been mixed. Their 12-Test winning run came to an end against Scotland in February, before a difficult spell of five consecutive defeats.
They have since bounced back with victories over Fiji and Argentina, but face a demanding November schedule against Australia, Japan and New Zealand, followed by a Nations Championship play-off.
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