Andy Farrell’s ‘two word’ reply about becoming next England boss

Thursday, 12 February 2026 at 21:54

byRugby Rucker

Andy Farrell says he’s 'loving life' as Ireland’s head coach and has ruled out any return to an England role ahead of the 2027 Rugby World Cup.

The former England assistant was linked with a move back to Twickenham when Steve Borthwick was under fire last year and remains the frontrunner to take over after the next World Cup.

His new book, Andy Farrell: The Only Way I Know: The gripping autobiography from one of rugby’s most revered players and coaches, is out now

Since taking charge in 2019, Farrell has led Ireland to the top of the world rankings, delivering a Triple Crown, a first-ever series win in New Zealand in 2022, and a Grand Slam earlier this year.

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Andy Farrell has agreed to a long-term contract extension to remain as Ireland’s head coach through the 2027 Rugby World Cup.

He will resume his duties next month following his successful stint leading the British & Irish Lions to a series victory over Australia this summ

"When you make a decision, you commit and that's it," said Farrell when previously asked last year about the possibility of leaving Ireland.

"And, you know, I'm very lucky that it wasn't just me that was committing, it was my wife and kids as well.

"Because whether you think it's a close flight or connected or whatever to the UK, it's still living abroad. It is a big move, you know, kids out of school.

"That type of commitment is something that I'll never forget from my family... I'm forever grateful."

He added: "We love it here. We're loving life here and the rugby's pretty good as well."

Farrell adding that his family loves living in Ireland and that he’s enjoying both life and rugby there — suggesting that, with his family settled, taking another job such as coaching England is no longer an obvious move.

There is little doubt that Farrell will be at the top of the Rugby Football Union’s wish list once the 2027 World Cup concludes, with his track record and leadership making him an obvious candidate to eventually take charge of England.

10 candidates to succeed Steve Borthwick as England head coach

The Old Master – Sir Clive Woodward (100/1)

England’s only World Cup-winning coach remains the touchstone for what success looks like in red and white. Two decades on, Woodward is more pundit than practitioner, yet his authority still carries weight. A romantic pick, but unlikely in the modern RFU setup.

Exeter’s Builder – Rob Baxter (20/1)

Few have shaped an English club more than Baxter, who took Exeter from Championship battlers to Premiership and European champions. Calm, consistent and deeply connected to English rugby, he’s a serious candidate if the RFU want a steady hand after Borthwick.

The Rogue Shout – Warren Gatland (18/1)

Gatland remains one of the most experienced and successful coaches in world rugby, with a proven record of building disciplined, resilient teams. His long tenure with Wales delivered four Six Nations titles and three Grand Slams, while his leadership of multiple British & Irish Lions tours cemented his reputation for clarity, toughness, and consistency.

Gatland’s pragmatic, no-frills style could stabilise England and re-establish a hard-nosed identity, though critics might argue his methods are more functional than inventive. Still, his pedigree and ability to deliver results under pressure make him a credible, if conservative, contender to succeed Steve Borthwick.

World Cup-winner – John Mitchell (15/1)

Mitchell’s stock has soared after guiding England’s women to World Cup glory, showcasing his ability to blend tactical precision with a positive, player-centred culture.

A seasoned operator with experience across New Zealand, England, and the USA, Mitchell has reinvented himself as a calmer, more adaptable coach than the fiery figure of his early career. His Red Roses played with clarity, aggression, and confidence—traits England’s men have often lacked.

While stepping up to the men’s job would be a leap, his recent success, international pedigree, and intimate knowledge of the English system make him an intriguing and increasingly credible candidate to replace Steve Borthwick.

The Mastermind – Rassie Erasmus (15/1)

Two-time World Cup-winning Springbok boss, tactical innovator, social-media stirrer — Erasmus is one of the sharpest (and most controversial) brains in rugby. Luring him from South Africa would be audacious, but his record speaks for itself.

The Rising Star – Ronan O’Gara (12/1)

The La Rochelle supremo has fast become one of Europe’s most admired coaches, pairing Irish grit with Kiwi tactical nous from his Crusaders stint. Known for fiery touchline passion and smart attacking plans, O’Gara looks destined for a Test gig sooner rather than later.

The Defensive dynamo – Shaun Edwards (10/1)

Edwards stands out as one of rugby’s most respected defensive minds and a perennial “one that got away” for England.

Currently shaping France’s formidable defence, he previously masterminded Wales’ Grand Slam-winning units under Warren Gatland. Renowned for his intensity, organisation, and ability to instil resilience, Edwards could bring the edge and clarity England have often lacked.

His return would carry both symbolism and risk: a proud Englishman proven abroad, but one who thrives on autonomy and might resist the RFU’s political constraints. Still, few coaches command more credibility as a potential successor to Steve Borthwick.

The Lineout Brain – Geoff Parling (8/1)

Fresh from being confirmed as Michael Cheika’s successor at Leicester Tigers, Parling’s stock has never been higher.

A cerebral lock in his playing days, he could become England’s next forward-thinking head coach in more ways than one

The Favourite Son – Andy Farrell (5/1)

Ireland’s Grand Slam-winning head coach and 2025 Lions boss, Farrell is perhaps the most coveted leader in world rugby right now. His blend of defensive steel and human touch has transformed Ireland into a powerhouse. Whether he’d swap Dublin for Twickenham is another story.

The Rebuilder – Stuart Lancaster (4/1)

Lancaster has quietly rebuilt his reputation since leaving England in 2015, thriving at Leinster and now in the URC with Connacht. A meticulous planner and player developer, he offers a second-chance narrative the RFU may find compelling. The bookies clearly think so.

Poll:

Quiz: Name these 10 retro rugby players

Alright, this might sting a bit—but if you’re over 30 and can’t name these iconic rugby legends from the 2000s, we have to ask: were you even watching?

From jaw-dropping tries to unforgettable moments (and yes, some questionable haircuts), these players defined a golden era of the game. If their names don’t instantly come to mind, we suggest a quick trip to YouTube to jog your memory. Trust us, it’s worth it.

Ready to test your knowledge? Let’s see if you’ve still got it. Good luck!

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