Statement: George Ford forced to pull out of England's summer tour after 'specialist medical advice'
Rugby NewsSunday, 09 June 2024 at 15:31
It has been announced that fly-half George Ford will miss England’s summer tour matches against Japan and New Zealand following specialist medical advice.
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According to Mail Sport, the seasoned fly-half will not be traveling to the southern hemisphere due to an Achilles injury, which has been since confirmed by the RFU.
Ford's absence opens up a significant opportunity for both Marcus Smith and Fin Smith, two of England's most promising young talents, who will now compete to be Borthwick’s first-choice No 10 for the tour.
George Ford of England speaks to Richard Wigglesworth, Coach of England during the Summer Nations Series Match between England and Wales at Twickenham, London on 12 Aug 2023 (Photo: Tom Sandberg/PPAUK)
England’s final squad for these matches will be announced tomorrow, and Ford will not be included.
"Naturally, we’re disappointed George won’t be with us in Japan and New Zealand," said Borthwick.
"But following specialist medical advice and in consultation with George, we have determined this is the best course of action."
"George is a vital part of the England team and a consummate professional. I know he will rehab diligently to ensure he returns to form as soon as possible."
Ford linked with cross-code switch
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
4) Scott Robertson (New Zealand) - £600,000 per year
Scott Robertson, the head coach of New Zealand's national rugby team, is one of the highest-paid coaches with an annual salary of £600,000. Known for his dynamic coaching style and ability to foster team cohesion, Robertson has a proven track record with the Crusaders in Super Rugby.
His transition to the national team has been highly anticipated, with expectations that his innovative approach will sustain New Zealand's rugby dominance. Robertson's leadership and tactical expertise make him a key figure in the sport's elite coaching ranks.
3) Andy Farrell (Ireland) - £600,000 per year
Andy Farrell, the head coach of the Irish national rugby team, earns £600,000 per year. A former rugby league and union star, Farrell has successfully transitioned into coaching, bringing his deep understanding of the game and motivational skills to his role.
Andy Farrell, Head Coach of Ireland is interviewed during the 2023 Guinness Six Nations Media Launch at County Hall, Lambeth, London on Monday 23rd January 2023 | Photo: James Fearn/PPAUK.
Under his guidance, Ireland has achieved significant milestones, including historic wins over top-tier teams.
Despite falling short during the 2023 Rugby World Cup, Farrell's ability to develop a resilient and competitive squad solidifies his standing as one of rugby's top-earning and most respected coaches.
2) Rassie Erasmus (South Africa) - £650,000 per year
Rassie Erasmus, the South African national team's director of rugby, earns £650,000 annually. Known for his strategic brilliance and transformative leadership, Erasmus masterminded South Africa's 2019 and 2023 Rugby World Cup victories.
His comprehensive approach to coaching, which includes a deep focus on player development and tactical innovation, has made him a pivotal figure in South African rugby. Erasmus' substantial salary reflects his critical role in maintaining the Springboks' status as a powerhouse in international rugby.
Rassie Erasmus, South Africa Director of Rugby during the Test Match between New Zealand and South Africa at Twickenham Stadium, Twickenham, London on August 25th 2023. - PHOTO: Phil Mingo/PPAUK
1) Steve Borthwick (England) - £700,000 per year
Steve Borthwick, the head coach of the English national rugby team, tops the list of highest-paid rugby coaches with a salary of £700,000 per year.
A former England captain and experienced coach, Borthwick is celebrated for his meticulous approach and emphasis on discipline and technical excellence. His leadership has been instrumental in shaping England's competitive strategies and overall performance.
Borthwick's substantial remuneration underscores his significant impact and the high expectations placed on him to steer England to continued success on the global stage.
Steve Borthwick, Head Coach of England during the England Six Nations Squad Annoucement at Twickenham Stadium, London on 17 January 2024. Photo: George Beck/PPAUK
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- Jordie Barrett over Damian de Allende is far from being correct. The hype around Dupont is also overreaching, he's probably 4th in the world and has been since the 2023 WC. He also avoids certain matchups which is strange. The rest of the list is pretty good apart from minor subjective biases.JasonMarlow16-09-2026
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