Felix Jones remains on England duty as new defence coach named

Felix Jones remains part of the England coaching team with the former Ireland full-back working remotely on tactical analysis.

The Rugby Football Union today named former Bristol and Toulon flanker Joe El-Abd as England defence coach, taking over from Jones, who tendered his resignation in August.

Jones joined England following South Africa’s World Cup win last year and was in place as they beat Ireland in the Six Nations.

RTÉ Sport understands Jones has a 12-month release clause in his contract and so remains as part of the coaching staff, working remotely and providing tactical analysis.

Speaking earlier this month about Jones' departure, RFU chief executive Bill Sweeney said: "We are deeply disappointed that this has taken place with no indication that it was going to happen. It came out of the blue."

El-Abd (above) will join for the autumn Tests and Six Nations this season, combining his role as rugby director at Oyonnax, before departing the French second division club next year and going full-time with England.

"I am delighted to bring in someone with Joe's expertise to our coaching programme," England head coach Steve Borthwick said.

"His knowledge, passion for the game and proven experience in developing high-performing teams will be key to the squad’s ongoing development.

"Joe embodies the qualities we value in the England Rugby team, and I am sure he will add to our environment and quickly deliver continued improvements to our game."

Ed-Abd, 44,moved to Oyonnax initially as a player-coach, and he returned there as director of rugby in 2019 after four years as forwards and defence coach at French Top 14 club Castres.

"I feel incredibly honoured to join the England coaching team, and I can’t wait to get started," El-Abd