John Mitchell will reportedly start work as England’s new defence coach next month, now that the ex-All Blacks head coach has officially agreed on a deal to replace Paul Gustard.
There had been intense speculation that the 54-year-old Kiwi, who was in charge of New Zealand from 2001 and 2003, having worked in Sir Clive Woodward’s England set-up, was a target for the role.
The Mail Online confirmed late on Friday night that Mitchell has finalised terms with the RFU to the end of next year’s World Cup.
It is understood that the union are in negotiations about a compensation payment with the Blue Bulls, the Pretoria-based South African Super Rugby franchise, where Mitchell is head coach.