Former England coach Eddie Jones has spoken out after losing his job last week. Following a dismal run of results, the RFU review panel met last Monday afternoon and decided to relieve the Australian of his duties the following morning.
Steve Borthwick has been tipped to take the reins, with Kevin Sinfield rumoured to join him and take up the role of the team’s defence coach. Moving forward, Jones has now revealed how open-minded he is regarding a potential switch to rugby league.
“In this job I’ve learnt it’s impossible to avoid being moved on. It comes with the gig. But I’m proud of what we accomplished in my time here [with England] and I wish I had the opportunity to finish what I started,” the 62-year-old told Rugby Pass.
“All the critics are having their say. My only response is that I have coached a certain way my whole career and I’m happy with that, and I’m not about to change anything when it comes to my dedication, expectations and determination to get things done. I’m not going to get into anything more than that.
“As for my next step, well I think everyone knows I love a scrap and I’m up for whatever challenge is next. I’m open to looking at everything in rugby and I’ve made no secret of my wish to give the NRL a go, too. Nothing is off the table. Nothing. It’s all about the right job at the right time and I’ll look at it all.”
Jones has been linked with a move to boyhood club South Sydney Rabbitohs and Sky Sports rugby league presenter Brian Carney spoke of how Jones was a target for Wigan Warriors and Warrington Wolves in recent years.
He spoke glowingly about Jones and the qualities he possesses as a coach and also stated how highly he is spoken of in rugby league ranks. “In simple terms, Eddie has the ability to coach a group of men and to turn them into winners,” Carney began.
“He's a huge fan of rugby league; that's evident and you can see that in the coaching staff he assembled when he was in charge of England. He brought in Anthony Seibold, Brett Hodgson, Martin Gleeson and Jon Clarke. We know he loves rugby league and the mentality of rugby league players.
“Wigan went very close to getting Eddie Jones a few years ago, Warrington had an interest in getting him as a head coach four or five years ago, so he's well thought of in rugby league circles. I think he’s probably got the experience, the maturity and the intelligence to surround himself with good people, turn up at a rugby league club and turn that group of players into winners. I wouldn’t be surprised if we see Eddie Jones in rugby league.”
