Borthwick hopes Farrell will return to England duty

LONDON : England coach Steve Borthwick is "really hopeful" that Owen Farrell will play for England again after his captain announced a break from international rugby for the good of his mental health following the Rugby World Cup.

Although Farrell has never directly blamed social media abuse for his decision, and Borthwick was careful with his choice of words on the matter at a media briefing on Thursday, comments from both men have indicated that its impact on him and his family played a large part.

"The first thing I’ll say is that I’m full of admiration for this guy, as a man, a player and a leader," Borthwick said. "It takes a lot of courage to do what he’s done.

"In England alone we’ve seen a player - the captain - and two match officials step away at the top of their game because of certain issues. There are societal issues here that are going on. The online hate that is spread is not ok, it’s not right."

Asked if he expected Farrell to return, Borthwick said: "I am really hopeful he does. This is one of England’s greatest-ever players, greatest-ever captains. I made it really clear there is no pressure on him, that’s his decision, at the time that’s right for him.

"Any team in the world would miss an Owen Farrell but the work he has done to help create a foundation over these last months, to help re-set the England team and move forward, that is part of his legacy through this tournament."

With Courtney Lawes also retiring, permanently, from internationals, Borthwick will announce a new captain on Jan. 17 when he names his squad for the Six Nations championship.

SERIOUS CHALLENGE

Having also confirmed defence coach Kevin Sinfield will leave after this year's tour of Japan and New Zealand, Borthwick believes England are