Eddie Jones insists he has “the petrol in the tank” to lead England at next year’s World Cup, but has “no desire” to coach them beyond then.
England suffered a disappointing Six Nations this year, losing three of their five matches and finishing third in the table.
Jones has come under pressure in the wake of that performance, particularly as England finished fifth in last year’s Six Nations as well, but he is convinced his side will come good at next year’s World Cup.
The Australian has expressed his hunger to lead England at that tournament, but reiterated his plans to leave when his contract expires after it.
“If I did not have the petrol in the tank then why would I be sitting here,” said Jones.
“There’s no desire to go beyond ’23. My stated aim is to be the best coach I can until 2023.”
Asked how confident he was things will be different in a year’s time, Jones replied: “100 per cent, never been as excited about this team.
“I’m so disappointed with the results but I’ve never been as excited about the prospects of this team.
“When I look at those young players and what I’ve learned during the Six Nations – we’ve learned more than anyone in the Six Nations – and those young players are going to be fine players.
“Then we’ve got another 11 quality players to come back in, we’ve seen the rebirth of some of our senior players. I think we’re in a really positive situation. It has all got to gel together and that will happen over the next 14 months.
“We don’t know when a team is going to peak and your aim as a coach is to peak at the right time.
“Our aim is to peak at the World Cup. I have said that consistently. That has been the plan and that is what we will do.”
