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Evening Standard
Evening Standard
Sport
Nick Purewal

Brett Hodgson to replace Anthony Seibold in England coaching reshuffle

Brett Hodgson will become England’s fourth defence coach under Eddie Jones.

The former Hull FC head coach will join England after the Autumn Nations Series, replacing the departing Anthony Seibold.

Defence specialist Seibold will join Manly Warringah Sea Eagles as head coach after England’s November Test campaign.

Former Huddersfield and Warrington star Hodgson will become Jones’ 18th assistant in his seven years as England head coach.

The 44-year-old Australian Hodgson will now shadow Seibold for the rest of England’s autumn series, before taking the reins in the run to next year’s World Cup in France.

“I’ve known Brett for a few years now," said Jones.

"He first visited us in Bristol in 2018 and I’ve been to Hull on a few occasions.

"He was an outstanding league player and he’s a talented, hard-working young coach who is developing.

“He will continue the good work that Anthony Seibold has done since he joined us.

“We are disappointed to lose Anthony but we are really pleased for him as a career move.

"It’s great to see assistant coaches move on to head coach roles.

“Anthony leaves with everyone at England Rugby’s thanks and we wish him all the best in his new role.”

Seibold had replaced John Mitchell in March 2021, who will face up against England this weekend in his assistant’s role with Japan.

Paul Gustard was Jones’ initial defence specialist, but left for Harlequins in 2018 and is now with Stade Francais.

Hodgson made more than 200 appearances in Australia’s NRL before winning the Man of Steel award with Huddersfield.

"I’m really excited about opportunity to join with England, especially in a Rugby World Cup year," said Hodgson.

“I’m really looking forward to working with the staff and this group of players.

"There is some real talent here and it’s something I feel I can make a contribution to in helping this team succeed.”

Seibold moved to thank Jones ahead of his impending England exit.

Defence specialist Anthony Seibold will join Manly Warringah Sea Eagles as head coach after England’s November Test campaign (Getty Images)

"It has been a tremendous experience working for one of the world’s best coaches in Eddie Jones and with the England Rugby team over the last 16 months," said Seibold.

"The mentorship that Eddie has given me is something I will take forward into my next role.

“The relationships I have developed with both staff and players alike has created many fond memories with the series winning tour to Australia a real coaching highlight.

“The players have been a wonderful group of men to work with and I will watch with great interest their growth over the next 12 months as they head towards success at the Rugby World Cup in France.”

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