Andy Farrell "regarded very highly" as the RFU continue to plan for life after Eddie Jones

Andy Farrell "regarded very highly" as the RFU continue to plan for life after Eddie Jones

Eddie Jones is set to vacate his role as the England men's head coach after the 2023 Rugby World Cup in France, and Ireland head coach Andy Farrell is being tipped to fill the role after the showpiece.

 

RFU chief executive Bill Sweeney fronted the media after England's Series victory over Australia and commented on the Ireland boss as England prepare for life after Eddie Jones.

 

Sweeney previously stated an English candidate would be the overwhelming preference to replace Australian Jones and Farrell's current deal with the IRFU expires at the end of the 2023 tournament in France.

 

A historic series victory over New Zealand has rapidly enhanced Farrell's reputation off the back of a Six Nations Triple Crown.

 

Sweeney has put together a Twickenham "war room" to aid recruitment and, asked specifically about the suitability of Wigan-born Farrell, replied: "He's doing well, isn't he?


 

"A couple of years ago, he wasn't doing so well and there was a lot of pressure around him at the time.

 

"I think it was only two years ago where there were calls to get rid of Andy Farrell, Mike Catt (his assistant), that whole group.


 

"But they've come through that and they're doing very well.

 

"He's regarded very highly but we also have a huge respect for the Irish Rugby Football Union. He's under contract through to '23 and then whatever happens after '23, happens after '23."

 

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