RFU backs Dylan Hartley as England captain despite latest ban threat

• Ian Ritchie believes Hartley’s conduct as captain counts in his favour• Hartley facing ban of up to eight weeks for stiff arm challengeDylan Hartley’s conduct as England captain must count in his favour when considering his future in the post, according to the Rugby Football Union.Hartley faces an independent disciplinary hearing on Wednesday to answer for the third red card of his career after being sent off for tackling Sean O’Brien from behind with a stiff arm in Northampton’s defeat by Leinster. Related: Pro12 sides lead charge against English and French heavyweights in Europe Continue …