SO WHO CAN REVIVE THE RED ROSE?
SIR CLIVE WOODWARD 5/1
The 2003 World Cup winner has not been in a tracksuit role for 10 years, but would definitely shake up the dynamic. Woodward would stand up to the RFU’s stance on not selecting overseas players, opening the door for Steffon Armitage. But he is much more likely to take a role as performance director than as coach. MIKE FORD 6/1 A popular figure with many of England’s youngsters, having nurtured the likes of his son George Ford, Jonathan Joseph and Anthony Watson at Bath. Ford (right) was Red Rose defence coach during the 2007 World Cup and brings a positive, attacking mindset to the dugout. JAKE WHITE 7/1 Offers a glowing CV as 2007 World Cup winner and twice IRB Coach of the Year. White was sounded out by the RFU in 2012 and was part of the shortlist to become Martin Johnson’s successor. Has experience of winning crucial Test matches and a reputation for getting key selection calls right. EDDIE JONES 8/1 A meticulous operator who has guided Japan to their best-ever showing at this year’s World Cup. Offers bucketloads of experience and, with limited resources, has brought the best out of his Brave Blossom players. Will leave Japan role at the end of the World Cup because of a ‘lack of ambition’ at board level. JIM MALLINDER 9/1 Brings a grounded understanding of English rugby, having coached in leagues below the Premiership. Prides Northampton’s core of English players on their physicality, which is a traditional strength of Red Rose rugby. Steered Saints to six consecutive top-four challenges, winning the Premiership title in the 2013/14 season. ROB BAXTER 10/1 Baxter (right) has grafted his way up the ranks with Exeter to become one of England’s most respected modern coaches. Transformed the Chiefs from a Championship outfit to Premiership play-off contenders, as well as helping develop one of the country’s most successful academies. A lack of international experience works against him. WARREN GATLAND 33/1 Contracted to Wales until the 2019 World Cup but the RFU could consider a buy-out for their Pool A nemesis. One of the game’s shrewdest operators, leading Wales to the knockout stages at the 2011 and 2015 World Cups despite working with limited resources.
*Odds from Ladbrokes