As England’s head coach, Steve Borthwick faces a monumental challenge: transforming the team into a force to be reckoned with on the global stage. Here’s a cheeky breakdown of the four crucial jobs that could elevate England back to elite status.
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1. Get His Best Players Back into the Squad
It’s no secret that England’s current roster is missing some key talent. Whether it’s by relaxing the rules for players plying their trade overseas or coaxing them back into the Premiership, Borthwick must act! Just look at Kyle Sinckler and Jack Willis—both are on fire at Toulon and Toulouse, respectively.
Their omission from the squad is a glaring oversight. England is undeniably weaker without them. Borthwick must reel in these stars and harness their top-tier performance to boost the team’s strength.
2. Decide on a Number 10 and Stick with It
The fly-half conundrum is another pressing issue for Borthwick. With George Ford and Marcus Smith, he has two quality operators at his disposal, but they offer contrasting styles. It’s time for Borthwick to choose his preferred playmaker and give them the reins.
Constantly chopping and changing isn’t going to foster cohesion among the players. A committed decision here will help unify the squad and create a consistent game plan that everyone can rally behind.
3. Develop Props Desperately
Let’s talk about the front row. The fact that Joe Marler and Dan Cole are still considered England’s best props is a cause for concern! This highlights a stagnation in the development of world-class props.
While Fin Baxter’s rise at loosehead is a glimmer of hope, England remains far behind world champions South Africa in this department. Borthwick must prioritize the development of young, dynamic props to strengthen the scrum and ensure the team can hold its own against the best.
4. Establish a Settled Staff
Last but not least, Borthwick needs a settled coaching staff. The revolving door of assistants since he took charge in 2023 has been nothing short of chaotic. Reports of Felix Jones quitting due to an “unstable working environment” raise red flags about the current setup.
For England to climb back to the top of the world rankings, a clear vision and a stable team behind the scenes are essential. Consistency in coaching will lay the groundwork for a successful and unified squad.
Can You Name England’s XV from Their 2019 World Cup Win Over the All Blacks?
From powerhouse forwards to lightning-fast backs, each player played a crucial role in this unforgettable triumph. Think you know the squad that made history?
Let’s put your memory to the test!
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