Attack coach Gleeson axed by Borthwick

ENGLAND have confirmed the departure of Martin Gleeson, the assistant head coach Steve Borthwick inherited from Eddie Jones.

Borthwick last week hired ex-Harlequins fly-half Nick Evans to take charge of England’s attack for the 2023 Six Nations in an appointment which immediately raised questions over the future of Gleeson, 42. The former rugby league player, who was appointed to oversee England’s attack in August 2021, said of his departure: ‘It’s been a pleasure to represent my country again and to work with this group of players. I wish them all the best.’ Meanwhile, Marcus Smith has handed Borthwick a boost by returning to action after seven weeks out with an ankle injury. Smith will go up against Scotland fly-half Finn Russell in tomorrow’s Champions Cup clash at French giants Racing 92. Meanwhile, George North’s return from a cheekbone injury has also handed Wales a big boost. North suffered a nasty knock in a Champions Cup clash with Leicester before Christmas which required surgery.

‘It’s good to get him back,’ said Ospreys head coach Toby Booth.