Who was first choice to replace Stuart Lancaster in 2015? Eddie Jones was FIFTH - Ruck

Who was first choice to replace Stuart Lancaster in 2015? Eddie Jones was FIFTH

Eddie Jones has been in charge of England now for almost six years, but he wasn’t the RFU’s first choice if the initial betting odds are to be believed.

Stuart Lancaster resigned as England head coach following their disastrous 2015 World Cup performance, triggering a wave of speculation over who could replace him in charge of what was set to be a completely revamped national coaching team.

Lancaster left after four years in the job, having replaced Martin Johnson in 2012 after a similarly ill-fated World Cup campaign, and despite overseeing a restoration in the reputation of English rugby by implementing a disciplined selection policy, he has decided that he can no longer continue in the role after choosing to leave by mutual consent.

The likes of Wales head coach Warren Gatland, Australia’s Michael Cheika and New Zealand’s Steve Hansen were initially touted as possible targets for England, but all ruled out any possibility of replacing Lancaster.

Despite being the initial fifth favourite, Jones got the role.

Take a look below at who were the initial favourites for the role.

#5. Eddie Jones – 7/1

Eddie Jones, England head coach during the UMBRO photo call at Pennyhill Park, Bagshot on 27 Aug. Photo: Phil Mingo/PPAUK

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