England Rugby Union Poised to Appoint New Defense Coach
A reliable source has confirmed that England is set to welcome a new defense coach to their ranks. Joe El-Abd, currently the head coach of French Pro D2 side Oyonnax, is expected to join the team’s backroom staff, pending final contract negotiations and compensation agreements.
The 44-year-old El-Abd will fill the void left by Felix Jones, who submitted his resignation in August. Jones is currently serving a 12-month notice period with the RFU, and it remains unclear whether he will see it through.
El-Abd’s appointment marks another significant move in Steve Borthwick’s efforts to rebuild his coaching team. The two have a long-standing relationship, dating back to their playing days in the West Country. This new addition comes on the heels of Alex Walters’ departure to join Ireland as head of strength and conditioning in August, followed by Jones’ resignation.
England’s autumn internationals schedule kicks off on November 2 against New Zealand, followed by matches against Australia, South Africa, and Japan.
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